New tachograph rules as from 1 July 2026

What changes and what do they mean for entrepreneurs and horse transport?

From 1 July 2026 The European rules on tachograph requirements are changing, and where the tachograph was previously mandatory for lorries over 3,500 kilograms, the regulation will apply from this date to a larger group of light commercial vehicles, which will affect traders carrying international goods, including companies who regularly cross the border with horse trucks or lighter transport vehicles.

But when exactly are you required to use a smart tachograph? And is this also true when you drive only a few times a year to Belgium or Germany?

In this article we explain what is changing and how you can prepare for it.

What changes will be made on July 1, 2026?

The new rules are based on the European point of departure. 1 July 2026 shall also include commercial vehicles with a maximum authorised mass from 2,500 kilograms are equipped with a Smart Tachograph 2 (G2V2) when used for international freight or cabotage.

Until now, this obligation has been mainly applied to vehicles over 3,500 kilograms, and the new regulation also includes much lighter commercial vehicles under tachograph requirements.

Which vehicles are subject to the new tachograph obligation?

The new rules apply when you:

• - international goods;
• - runs with a vehicle or combination from 2,500 kilograms maximum permitted,
• - carrying out professional transport.

It doesn't matter whether you cross the border every day or only a few times a year. Occasionally international transport is also regulated.

When does the obligation not apply?

Not every entrepreneur is dealing with the new rules.

If you drive only within the Netherlands with a vehicle below 3,500 kg, nothing changes.

There are also various national and European exemptions, for example for certain forms of own transport where transport is not the main activity, and it is therefore wise to have your situation assessed in advance as to whether an exception is appropriate.

What does this mean for horse transport?

In the same way, the Commission has also proposed that the Commission should take the necessary measures to ensure that the Community's financial resources are used to finance the development of the internal market. 2,500 and 3,500 kilograms.

For example, think about:

• - professional horse-riding carriers,
• - traders,
• - competition stalls;
• - entrepreneurs transporting horses to competitions in Belgium, Germany or France.

If these journeys are covered by international professional transport, the new tachograph requirement may apply, which means that the vehicle must not only be equipped with a Smart Tachograph 2, but also that the European driving and resting time rules will apply.

Why preparing on time is wise

Many entrepreneurs are waiting for the regulations to come into effect. However, early preparation is wise.

The demand for smart tachographs is expected to increase significantly as the entry date approaches, which can lead to waiting times at approved workshops for installation of the systems, and also to a timely request for driver cards and business cards.

By checking which vehicles are covered by the new regulations within your fleet, you will avoid unnecessary delays or stops.

What do you have to do as an entrepreneur?

In order to be well prepared for the new regulation, it is wise to go through the following steps:

• - Check which vehicles within your fleet are subject to the new rules.
• - See if there's any exemption.
• - Request the necessary tachograph cards in time.
• - Plan the installation of a Smart Tachograph 2 well before 1 July 2026.
• - Inform drivers about the driving and rest rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the new rules apply if I only drive to Belgium a few times a year?

Yes. Occasionally international freight transport is also covered by the regulations.

Is a tachograph mandatory when I drive only in the Netherlands?

In many cases, not. For vehicles below 3,500 kilograms driving only nationally, the current situation is generally unchanged.

Do the rules apply to horse trucks?

This depends on the weight, use and international professional transport, and always let this be assessed when you are crossing the border regularly.

Prepare your fleet in time for

The extension of tachograph obligations is a major change for many entrepreneurs. By gaining timely insight into your fleet, you prevent surprises and you can have your vehicles adjusted on time.

Do you have any doubts as to whether your vehicle is covered by the new regulations? Then, be advised carefully, so that you can get on the road safely and according to the applicable legislation.