Why does a digital tachograph matter?
The digital tachograph is the main way authorities check whether drivers and vehicles comply with EU driving-time, rest and speed rules. Accurate records protect drivers from overwork, protect the public from fatigue-related accidents and protect carriers from fines. From 1 July 2026, the requirements extend to light commercial vehicles between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes in international transport, so many van operators will need to install compliant devices.
How does a digital tachograph work in logistics?
The device is installed in the vehicle and connected to motion sensors that measure speed and distance. The driver inserts their driver card to start recording activities such as driving, breaks and rest periods. The device stores this data in its memory and on the card. Carriers download the records at regular intervals, and enforcement officers can read them during roadside checks or inspections at premises.
Vehicles and operations that use digital tachographs
- Heavy goods vehicles operating in EU road transport
- International vans between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes (from 1 July 2026)
- Full truckload (FTL) transport
- Cross-border express and van delivery
- Pallet and groupage transport across borders
- Coach and passenger transport operators
Example in practice
A logistics company in Bratislava, Slovakia operates a fleet of 3.5-tonne vans on cross-border deliveries to Vienna, Austria and Budapest, Hungary. Before 1 July 2026, its vans were not required to carry digital tachographs for these routes. To comply with the new rules, the company has each van fitted with a compliant digital tachograph. During a roadside check near Hegyeshalom on the Hungarian border, the officer reads the driver card and the vehicle unit. The records show that the driver’s breaks and rest periods were recorded correctly, so the van is allowed to continue to Budapest.