As holiday traffic builds across Europe, so do restrictions on heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). If you’re moving cargo across borders this summer, it’s important to know when and where these driving bans apply – helping you avoid costly delays and keep things running smoothly.
Most bans affect vehicles over 7.5 tonnes and are enforced on weekends and public holidays. Some countries also apply additional rules on busy tourist routes or during high-season weekends.
Here’s a breakdown of the key restrictions this summer:
France
HGVs over 7.5 tonnes face the following summer restrictions:
- Every Saturday from the last Saturday of July to the last Saturday of August: 07:00 – 19:00
- Every following Sunday: 00:00 – 22:00
- Additional public holiday restrictions:
- 12 July: 22:00 – 24:00
- 13 July: 00:00 – 24:00
- 14 July: 00:00 – 24:00
- 14 August: 22:00 – 24:00
- 15 August: 00:00 – 22:00
Note: International transit on certain routes (e.g. Calais to Belgium border via A16) may be exempt when not transporting hazardous goods.
Germany
Applies to vehicles over 7.5 tonnes:
- Year-round Sunday ban: 00:00 – 22:00
- Additional summer Saturday ban (1 July – 31 August): 07:00 – 20:00
Italy
Driving bans apply to vehicles over 7.5 tonnes:
- Every Sunday from June through September: 07:00 – 22:00
- Additional peak summer dates with varying Saturday bans:
- July: 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27
- August: 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31
- Typical timings:
- Saturdays: 08:00 – 16:00 or 08:00 – 22:00
- Sundays and public holidays: 07:00 – 22:00
Note: Exact hours vary by date. It’s advised to consult Italy’s official calendar for confirmed restrictions.
Poland
Applies to vehicles over 12 tonnes, from the last Friday in June through 31 August:
- Fridays: 18:00 – 22:00
- Saturdays: 08:00 – 14:00
- Sundays: 08:00 – 22:00
- Public holiday restrictions:
- 14 August: 18:00 – 22:00
- 15 August: 08:00 – 22:00
Austria
Applies to HGVs over 7.5 tonnes:
- Saturdays: 15:00 – 24:00
- Sundays and public holidays: 00:00 – 22:00
- Public holiday (15 August): 00:00 – 22:00
Tyrol region restrictions (A12, A13, A14):
- Every Saturday from 8 June to 28 September: 07:00 – 15:00
These apply to key transit corridors and may significantly affect international road freight through the Alps.
Spain
There is no nationwide HGV driving ban in Spain. However, regional or hazardous goods restrictions may apply. For 15 August (Assumption Day), local or regional authorities may enforce bans. Carriers should check local regulations.
Countries Without a General Summer Ban
While there’s no blanket national ban in the following countries, local, regional, or ADR (hazardous goods) restrictions may still apply:
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- Sweden
- Denmark
- Norway
- Portugal
Fines and Penalties
Failing to comply with driving bans can lead to substantial fines – in some countries up to €1,800. Both the driver and the haulier may be held liable, and in some cases, the vehicle may be detained. Always consult the relevant country’s transport authority or local forwarding agent before planning a route.
Need help planning around summer restrictions?
We work closely with trusted hauliers and partners across Europe to help you stay compliant, avoid delays, and keep your supply chain moving. Get in touch with our team today if you’d like support.
Note: This information is accurate as of 25 July 2025. However, national regulations may change, and regional or route-specific measures (e.g. ADR goods, Alpine corridors) may apply. Please see the official transport or road authority websites in each country before finalising any cross-border logistics plans.