Vans to Fall Under Heavy Transport Regulations: Transit Times Will Increase on Long Routes
On July 1, 2026, a historic regulatory change will take effect, significantly impacting intra-European express transport. Vans weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes used in international transport will fall under the same driving and rest time regulations as heavy trucks. Wiima Logistics has prepared for this change to ensure that our customers' time-critical deliveries continue to reach their destinations.
The long-standing flexibility in light vehicle express transport (Express Van) is facing a new reality. Under the new regulations, vans must be equipped with smart tachographs, and drivers must adhere to strict break and rest times. The shared message from our experts and our European logistics network is clear: The traditional express van will no longer be as "express" as before.
What do the regulations mean in practice (as of July 1, 2026)?
The following restrictions will apply to 2.5–3.5 tonne vehicles in international transport:
- 9 hours of daily driving time (max. 10 hours with certain exceptions)
- 45-minute mandatory break after every 4.5 hours of driving
- 11 hours of daily rest
- Strict weekly and bi-weekly driving time limits
- Mandatory smart tachograph, the installations of which are still ongoing in many parts of the market.
Impact on Transit Times: "Vans will be as slow as trucks"
We have extensively assessed the situation with our reliable European transport partners. In summary, short express runs will remain largely unchanged, but long cross-European transits will change significantly.
How will we handle time-critical deliveries in the future?
Although the rules are tightening, Wiima Logistics ensures that vital deliveries, such as spare parts critical to production continuity, will reach their destinations. We have prepared for the change with three main solutions:
1. Team-Driver Model
The most effective way to maintain current transit times on long routes. Highly suitable for time-critical shipments.
+ Transit times remain fast - Costs will increase significantly - Capacity will be limited2. Driver Relay Networks
Drivers are swapped en route at pre-arranged transfer stations (e.g., Polish hubs or Central European points). This enables continuous progress without driving time violations.
+ Allows long distances without delays - Requires precise logistical planning3. Under 2.5-Tonne Specialized Fleet
Vehicles that fall outside the new regulations (e.g., light vans or passenger cars with trailers). Ideal for small, highly urgent shipments.
+ Exempt from driving time regulations - Payload is often only approx. 200–500 kg - Not suitable for heavy or large palletsMarket Warning: Capacity Shortages and Rising Costs
Many European operators will not have time to install the required smart tachographs by the July deadline. This will cause a temporary capacity shortage of compliant vans in the market, especially during July and August 2026.
The tightening of capacity will directly reflect on prices. We expect spot prices to rise, and last-minute orders in particular will become more expensive. According to expert estimates, the costs of van transport could increase by up to 35–45% on certain routes when premium solutions, such as the team-driver model, are required.
Action Plan for Our Customers – How to Prepare:
Although the market is changing, Wiima Logistics' experts will continue to find the best routes and solutions for your deliveries. We recommend that logistics decision-makers take the following into consideration starting July 1, 2026:
- Anticipate and book early: Last-minute solutions will be considerably more expensive and their availability will be limited.
- Identify genuinely critical shipments: If the shipment involves a vital spare part that could halt a production line, we will ensure the fastest route using team drivers or light vehicles.
- Account for increased budget needs: Update your freight budgets for time-critical transport to match the new market reality.
Our team is actively updating customer-specific solutions. If your supply chain has regular express needs on long European routes, please reach out to your Wiima contact person so we can design a tailored and cost-effective model for you.
Anna Heikonen
Sourcing Manager
anna.heikonen(at)wiima.fi
+358 50 492 7408
