From 1 July 2026, light goods vehicles over 2.5 tonnes that are used for international journeys between the UK and EU for hire and reward must have a smart tachograph 2 fitted.
If you’re being paid to drive an LGV over 2.5 tonnes between the EU and the UK, on and after this date, it will need to have a tachograph fitted. You will need to comply with the assimilated drivers’ hours rules, formerly known as the EU drivers’ hours rules, to remain compliant.
A vehicle or vehicle and trailer combination does not need a smart tachograph 2 fitted if:
- It’s being used on an international journey for the driver or operator’s own account and driving does not constitute the driver’s main activity
- It weighs over 2.5 tonnes and less than 3.5 tonnes and is operating only within the UK
There are additional obligations that come with having to comply with the tachograph rules. There are requirements to download and analyse the data. This is very familiar to HGV operators who have been working within this framework for many years, but for van operators, this may be new territory.
Our specialist team can support you with compliance awareness so that you do not get caught out by changes. Contact Jared Dunbar today for help.