Efficiently transporting goods in Europe

Efficiently transporting goods in Europe: New regulations you need to know

Since May 21, 2022, there have been significant updates to the rules governing the transportation of goods in vans across Europe. These changes have implications for businesses and operators involved in the movement of goods in the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

International goods vehicle operator licence requirement

To transport goods for hire or reward in the aforementioned regions, you must possess a standard international goods vehicle operator licence. This requirement applies to businesses and operators based in England, Scotland, or Wales that utilise:

• Vans or other light goods vehicles (commonly referred to as ‘light commercial vehicles’) with a Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM) exceeding 2,500 kilograms and up to and including 3,500 kilograms.
• Vans towing trailers with a Gross Train Weight (GTW) exceeding 2.5 tonnes and up to and including 3.5 tonnes.
• Cars towing trailers with a GTW exceeding 2.5 tonnes and up to and including 3.5 tonnes.

However, if you exclusively operate your vehicles within the UK or transport goods not intended for ‘hire or reward,’ you are exempt from the goods vehicle operator licence requirement.

Compliance and licencing options

To ensure compliance with these regulations, you have several options:

• Apply for a standard international goods vehicle operator licence if you are obtaining one for the first time.
• Add your vehicles to your existing standard international goods vehicle operator licence, if applicable.
• Seek an upgrade from your standard national goods vehicle operator licence to a standard international goods vehicle operator licence, provided you possess a standard national licence.
• Request an upgrade from your restricted goods vehicle operator licence to a standard international goods vehicle operator licence, if you hold a restricted licence.

For comprehensive information and guidance from the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency), please refer to the government article provided here. Stay informed and ensure compliance with these regulations to facilitate the seamless transportation of goods within Europe.

For more help staying compliant, Truckfile has a full suite of fleet and workshop management software. Visit our website to find out more: truckfile.co.uk.