Cabotage operations in 2024 must strictly comply with the current EU regulations outlined in Regulation (EC) No. 1072/2009, as well as the updates introduced under the Mobility Package I. Below are the key points:
1. Number of Operations
After completing an international transport within an EU country, carriers are permitted to perform up to three cabotage operations within seven days. These operations must take place exclusively in the country where the international transport ended.
2. Timeframe
The seven-day period starts from the moment the cargo delivered as part of the international transport is fully unloaded. Within this timeframe, up to three cabotage operations are allowed.
3. Documentation
All cabotage operations must be properly documented. This includes:
- Proof of the completed international transport.
- Records of each individual cabotage operation.
4. Vehicle Requirements
Cabotage regulations also apply to vehicles with a maximum permissible weight of up to 3.5 tons. Companies using such vehicles are required to adhere to these rules.
5. Cooling-Off Period
After completing three permitted cabotage operations, carriers must observe a four-day “cooling-off period.” During this time, no new cabotage operations can be performed in the same country.
6. Mandatory Return
Vehicles must return to their country of registration at least once every eight weeks.
Purpose of the Rules
These regulations aim to ensure fairness and transparency in cabotage operations and to harmonize competitive conditions across the EU.
Transport companies involved in international operations should carefully monitor compliance with these requirements to avoid fines and other penalties.
