Changes in transport in 2026 – what awaits the TSL industry?

In 2026, the transport, forwarding and logistics industry will need to adapt to new regulations concerning, among others, tachographs, drivers’ working time and international transport.

For several years now, the transport, forwarding and logistics sector has been operating in an environment of constant regulatory changes. New rules affect not only drivers’ working conditions but also the way transport operations are documented and the technical requirements imposed on vehicles.

The year 2026 will be no exception in this regard. New regulations are coming into force as a result of EU legislation, updated safety standards and the ongoing digitalisation of the transport sector.

For many companies, the changes in transport in 2026 will mean the need to adjust operational procedures, update vehicle fleets and modify work organisation. It is therefore worth understanding in advance which changes may have the greatest impact on the day-to-day operations of transport and logistics companies.

Tachographs in vans up to 3.5 tonnes

One of the most significant changes will be the extension of the obligation to use tachographs to certain vehicles with a gross vehicle weight between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes.

From 1 July 2026, vehicles in this category used for international transport will be required to be equipped with second-generation smart tachographs.

Until now, the van segment has been far less regulated than heavy road transport. In practice, this meant greater operational flexibility, but also differences in competitive conditions between carriers operating in different segments of the market.

The new regulations aim to increase transparency and create more equal operating conditions for transport companies.

However, for companies using vans in international transport, this will mean the need to:

• equip their fleets with the required devices,
• implement systems for recording drivers’ working time,
• adjust transport management processes.

Changes regarding drivers’ working time

The introduction of tachographs in this vehicle category will also extend regulations concerning driving time, mandatory breaks and rest periods for drivers.

Until now, these regulations primarily applied to heavy transport. In the case of vans, the rules were less restrictive, which in practice allowed for more flexible transport planning.

Once these vehicles become subject to the tachograph requirement, some carriers will need to operate under rules similar to those applied to transport above 3.5 tonnes.

In practice, this means the need for more precise route planning, taking drivers’ rest periods into account and adjusting transport schedules.

For logistics and forwarding companies, this also means the need for even more careful supply chain planning.

Updates to ADR regulations

Changes in 2026 will also include updates to ADR regulations concerning the transport of dangerous goods.

Updates of this type occur regularly and mainly result from the need to adapt regulations to technological development, new materials and increasing safety requirements.

The changes include, among others:

• clarifying the classification rules for certain substances,
• updating transport documentation requirements,
• modifying requirements regarding labelling and transport safety.

Companies involved in transporting such cargo will need to ensure that their procedures are updated and that employees responsible for organising transport receive appropriate training.

Ongoing digitalisation of the transport industry

Alongside regulatory changes, digitalisation is playing an increasingly important role in the transport industry.

In practice, this means the growing use of tools enabling:

• electronic document circulation,
• digital data exchange between supply chain participants,
• real-time transport monitoring,
• integration of transport and warehouse management systems.

Digitalisation is no longer just an element of process optimisation. In many cases, it is becoming a standard expected by business partners, logistics operators and regulatory authorities.

For companies in the TSL sector, this means the need for further investments in IT tools and the development of digital competencies within operational teams.

How to prepare for the upcoming changes in transport in 2026?

Although some of the regulations will only come into force in the second half of 2026, for many companies now is a good time to start preparing for the upcoming changes.

In practice, this means primarily:

• analysing the fleet and the scope of transport operations,
• reviewing existing operational procedures,
• updating documentation and IT systems,
• monitoring regulatory changes in the transport sector on an ongoing basis.

In the transport industry, a competitive advantage is often achieved through proper operational preparation and the ability to quickly adapt to new market conditions.

Transport is not only about regulations

Regulatory changes are an integral part of the transport sector. Each new update of the regulations requires companies not only to comply formally but also to ensure proper operational preparation.

In practice, the following elements are crucial:

• well-planned logistics processes,
• knowledge of current regulations,
• experience in organising international transport.

These are the factors that ultimately determine whether transport operations run smoothly – regardless of changes in regulations.

If you are planning international transport and are looking for a reliable partner prepared for the changes in transport in 2026 – feel free to contact us.

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FAQ – Changes in Transport in 2026

Will tachographs be mandatory in vans up to 3.5 tonnes?

Yes. From 1 July 2026, vehicles with a gross vehicle weight between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes performing international transport will be required to be equipped with second-generation smart tachographs. This will require carriers to adapt their fleets and maintain proper records of drivers’ working time.

How will the new regulations affect transport organisation?

The introduction of tachographs in this category of vehicles means that regulations concerning driving time, breaks and rest periods will have to be applied. In practice, this will affect route planning and transport scheduling.

How can a transport company prepare for the changes in 2026?

The most important step is early operational preparation: analysing the fleet, reviewing current procedures, updating documentation and continuously monitoring regulatory developments in the transport sector.