In 2026, toll and tachograph regulations will change in several European countries. These changes mainly affect professional hauliers and commercial goods transport, but owners of horse trucks should also stay informed, especially if they are travelling abroad for competitions, training camps or longer international journeys.
The most important distinction is that private horse transport may often be treated differently from commercial transport. It makes a difference whether someone is transporting their own horse for hobby, sport or private purposes, or whether the transport is carried out for payment, regularly, or as part of a business activity. From 1 July 2026, the tachograph obligation in the EU may also apply to light commercial vehicles between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes, but according to the European Commission’s information, this applies to vehicles used for international goods transport for hire or reward.
What is a tachograph?
A tachograph is a recording device used in trucks and buses. It records, for example, when the driver was driving, when they were resting, how fast the vehicle was travelling and how far it has driven. Its purpose is to make it possible to check compliance with driving and rest time rules. For privately used horse trucks, the first question is therefore always whether the vehicle is truly being used for private purposes or whether it is connected to an economic activity.
In the Netherlands, a new kilometre-based truck toll will be introduced from 1 July 2026. It will apply to Dutch and foreign vehicles in categories N2 and N3 over 3.5 tonnes. According to the official information, it does not matter what the vehicle is used for, or whether it is loaded or empty. For horse trucks over 3.5 tonnes, it is therefore especially important to check the vehicle category listed in the registration documents.
In Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Sweden, it is also worth checking the relevant country’s toll system in advance, as toll charges may depend on the vehicle’s maximum authorised weight, number of axles, emission class or CO₂ category. In France, the changes are more likely to take the form of annual motorway toll increases rather than a complete system change.
Before setting off, horse truck owners should therefore check three key points: what vehicle category is listed in the registration documents, what the vehicle’s maximum authorised weight is, and whether the journey is private or connected to a commercial activity. This is especially important for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes and for international journeys, where it is advisable to consult the official toll and transport information of the countries involved.
Overall, the 2026 changes do not necessarily create new obligations for every privately used horse truck, but it is still worth preparing carefully before international travel. The key question is always: what vehicle are we using, which country are we travelling to, and for what purpose?
Not sure which rules apply to your vehicle? Contact us, and we will help you review the most important points before your journey.