New obligation for delivery vehicles

Mandatory tachograph for deliveries from 1.7.2026: who is affected and what you must comply with

The European Union is gradually tightening the rules in road transport and a fundamental change is coming from 1 July 2026. The mandatory tachograph will now also apply to some deliveries up to 3.5 tonnes. Until now, this obligation was typical mainly for trucks. However, the new legislation extends the rules to smaller carriers, sole traders and courier services.

Who is affected by the mandatory tachograph

According to the new legislation, vehicles weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes will have to be equipped with a tachograph if they are used for commercial transport of goods abroad.

This change will mainly affect:

• courier companies
• smaller carriers
• sole traders engaged in international transport

So if you drive outside Slovakia, the mandatory tachograph for delivery will most likely affect you.

What new obligations will drivers and companies have?

The tachograph records driving time, breaks and other data on vehicle operation. Thanks to this, the inspection authorities will have a better overview of compliance with the regulations.

However, the introduction of the tachograph also brings other obligations:

• installing the tachograph in the vehicle
• regular data download
• data archiving
• driver training

On the other hand, this is a step that is intended to increase road safety and ensure fair conditions between carriers.

Modern vehicles and the tachograph: why CAN BUS is important

Modern vans operate on electronic systems that communicate via the so-called CAN BUS bus. This enables rapid data exchange between vehicle control units. When installing a tachograph in a van, it is often necessary to obtain data such as the current vehicle speed, ignition status, and distance traveled. However, this data is not always possible to obtain by traditional methods, which can complicate installation.

Easier tachograph installation

One solution is the Keetec M CAN module from TSS GROUP.

This module can:

• read data directly from the CAN BUS
• convert them to analog pulses for the tachograph
• simplify installation without interfering with the electrical installation

In practice, this means faster installation, lower risk of errors and less intervention in the vehicle.

Solution for installation professionals

Thanks to more than 20 years of experience in processing data from CAN BUS, Keetec M CAN is a suitable solution for installation companies specializing in the installation of specialized devices, such as Tachographs or Taximeters. It allows reliable integration of tachographs even in modern vehicles where access to signals is limited.

Preparing for a mandatory tachograph is worth it

The new rules will enter into force on July 1, 2026. Companies and drivers should therefore not wait until the last minute. Early preparation means less stress, lower costs, and a smooth transition to the new rules.