Tachograph in International Transportation: Why It’s Needed

In international freight transportation, driver work schedules monitored via tachographs are one of the key tools for controlling work and rest periods. Tachographs not only ensure road safety but also help prevent driver fatigue. For drivers, a tachograph is a way to officially confirm compliance with transport regulations, while for logistics companies, it serves as a risk management tool and a way to adhere to legal requirements. Effective scheduling is crucial for high-quality control.

The legal framework regulating this process is based on EU Regulation 561/2006 and the European Agreement concerning the Work of Crews of Vehicles Engaged in International Road Transport (AETR). These documents set the standards for European countries and are relevant to nations cooperating with the EU, including Ukraine. This regulation forms the basis for controlling drivers’ work and rest times.

What is a Tachograph and How Does It Work?

A tachograph is a device that automatically records data about the movement of a vehicle, the driver’s working hours, breaks, and rest periods. There are two types: older analog models and modern digital ones, which provide more accurate and detailed information. This device enables strict control over driving time.

The main components of a digital tachograph include a control unit, driver card reader, memory for data storage, and a printer for report generation. The driver inserts a personal card that identifies them, and the tachograph automatically logs work modes: driving time, other work, rest, and standby.

Key Rules for Work and Rest

To prevent fatigue and accidents, the following norms are established:

• Maximum continuous driving time is 4.5 hours. After that, a break of at least 45 minutes is required, which can be split into two parts: first 15 minutes, then 30 minutes.
  
• Daily driving limit is 9 hours, extendable to 10 hours twice per week.
  
• Weekly driving limit is 56 hours, with a maximum of 90 hours over two consecutive weeks.
  
• Weekly rest must be at least 45 hours, although it can be reduced to 24 hours in exceptional cases with compensation.
  
• Daily rest must be at least 11 hours, with the possibility of reducing it to 9 hours three times per week.
  

These rules help maintain drivers’ health and ensure road safety. Strict adherence also avoids penalties.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Special conditions apply to certain types of cargo and transport. Transporting live animals, humanitarian aid, and perishable goods may require more flexible schedules due to strict delivery timeframes. Special exemptions are provided for such cases.

Vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tons are subject to less stringent time rules, which is considered in scheduling for small trucks.

In force majeure situations such as natural disasters or accidents, drivers may deviate from the norms but must document it to avoid penalties. In such cases, swift action and accurate documentation are especially important.

Responsibility for Violations

Violating work and rest schedules results in penalties for both the driver and the transport company. Fines vary by country:

• Germany: up to €5,000
  
• France: up to €3,000
  
• Poland: around €400
  
• Ukraine: up to ₴1,700, with trends aligning to EU norms
  

There are known cases where drivers from various countries faced large fines for violating work/rest rules, leading to delays and reputational damage to companies. Responsibility involves not only inspections but also strict internal compliance, as it is a matter of safety.

Tips for Compliance

To minimize risks and follow regulations, routes should be carefully planned with time limits in mind. Modern mobile apps and specialized software help track driving time and remind drivers to take breaks, supporting compliance.

Regular tachograph software updates and timely maintenance are essential. This ensures correct operation and prevents technical failures that could lead to issues with regulatory authorities.

The Role of the Logistics Company

ETS (European Transport Systems) ensures driver compliance with work/rest schedules through the comprehensive use of modern technologies. They integrate tachographs with GPS/GLONASS systems to track transport in real-time and monitor regulation compliance.

Benefits of working with ETS:

• Route planning in accordance with legal limits, reducing fines and downtime.
  
• Use of innovative technologies to monitor and analyze tachograph data.
  
• Customized logistics adapted to cargo specifics.
  
• Driver training and legal support.
  
• Technical support and software updates for tachographs.
  

This approach guarantees safe and efficient transportation that meets the highest standards. As a result, ETS ensures a high level of control and schedule compliance.

Adhering to long-haul driver work schedules using tachographs is a key requirement for safe and legal international transportation. It preserves driver health and safety while minimizing financial and reputational risks for companies.