Road transport is one of the most heavily regulated industries in Europe. Regulations govern who can drive, for how long, in what kind of vehicle, carrying what goods, and at what cost. Understanding the regulatory framework is not optional — it is the foundation of compliant and competitive operations.
EU Regulation 561/2006 (as amended by the Mobility Package) sets binding limits on driving time and mandatory rest:
Daily driving: maximum 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours up to twice per week.
Weekly driving: maximum 56 hours.
Fortnightly driving: maximum 90 hours over two consecutive weeks.
Break requirement: at least 45 minutes after no more than 4.5 hours of driving (can be split: 15 min + 30 min).
Daily rest: minimum 11 hours (reducible to 9 hours up to 3 times per week, with compensation).
Weekly rest: minimum 45 hours regular rest, or 24 hours reduced rest (with compensation within 3 weeks).
Since the Mobility Package (2020–2022), drivers must return home or to their employer’s operational centre at least every 4 weeks, and weekly rest may no longer be taken in the cab.
EU Directive 96/53/EC (as amended by Directive 2015/719 and the 2022 Weights & Dimensions Regulation) sets the maximum weights and dimensions for vehicles in international transport:
Zero-emission vehicles (BEV, FCEV) receive a weight allowance of up to 2 tonnes above standard limits to account for battery weight.