Tachograph 2.5-3.5t: G2V2 mandatory from 1.07.2026 – Prepare yourself with Merkol GmbH
In accordance with the regulations laid down in the Mobility Package, a key requirement for light goods transport comes into force. Vehicles with a permissible total mass exceeding 2.5 tonnes, used in cross-border road freight transport, must be equipped with second-generation (G2V2) intelligent tachographs.
This change affects fleets that carry out transport operations outside the country of registration, including cabotage. The aim of this obligation is to harmonize control standards and increase safety in the light commercial vehicle sector across the entire European market.
Merkol is your reliable supplier of intelligent G2V2 tachographs and an expert in implementing new regulations. We offer comprehensive support with equipment procurement and achieving legal compliance, thereby minimizing the risk of hefty fines.
Changes to driving and rest times: Who is affected by the new G2V2 tachograph in Germany?
Regulation (EU) 2020/1054 extends the historical requirements on driving and rest times of drivers (Regulation 561/2006) to light commercial vehicles.
The G2V2 tachograph requirement applies to:
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Vehicles: Over 2.5 t GVW up to 3.5 t GVW .
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Type of transport: Exclusively international transport and cabotage .
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Exceptions: The obligation does not apply to national transport (exclusively within Germany), company transport (transport for the company's own purposes) and passenger transport vehicles with up to 9 seats.
Drivers of these vehicles must comply with EU standard working time regulations: a maximum of 9 hours of driving time per day (up to 10 hours twice a week), breaks every 4.5 hours, daily rest periods (11 hours) and weekly rest periods (45 hours).
How do I implement a tachograph in vans from 2.5t to 3.5t? Important obligations and equipment purchase.
Preparing the fleet in Germany requires a comprehensive approach. Merkol offers full support for the most important implementation steps:
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Purchasing the G2V2 tachograph: The device must be purchased in order to have it activated and calibrated at a specialist workshop. Merkol supplies the latest intelligent G2V2 tachographs, ready for installation at an authorized workshop.
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Installation and calibration: The prescribed installation and activation of the purchased G2V2 tachograph must be carried out exclusively in an authorized specialist workshop .
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Tachograph cards: Possession of a company card (approx. €100, valid for 5 years) and a driver card (approx. €60) is mandatory.
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Data download and archiving: Systematic downloading of data every 90 days (tachograph) and every 28 days (driver card) and its archiving for a period of one year in accordance with German law.
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Timekeeping: Maintaining precise timekeeping records that comply with both the German Working Time Act (ArbZG) and EU standards.
High fines in Germany: How can I avoid a €30,000 fine for non-compliance?
German authorities (BAG, police) have announced stricter checks on 2.5-3.5 ton vehicles, particularly on major roads (e.g., A1/A3) and border crossings. The consequences of violations are severe.
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Drivers: Fines of up to €2,000 .
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Transport companies: Fines of up to €30,000 for serious violations.
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Additional consequences: In addition to fines, the vehicle may be impounded, points may be added to your driving record in Flensburg, and in extreme cases, the transport license may be lost and you may be entered in the register of violations.
Don't take any risks! Merkol – your partner for the supply of G2V2 tachographs.
Merkol is fully prepared to support transport companies in Germany in implementing the new tachograph requirement for 2.5t-3.5t transporters.
Our range:
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Supply of G2V2 tachographs: Sale of state-of-the-art equipment.
Contact Merkol today! Secure the necessary equipment and knowledge to comply with legal regulations and ensure the business continuity of your transport company in the European Union.
