Several EU countries have reintroduced internal border checks, citing irregular migration and security concerns. For hauliers, this means heightened scrutiny and the risk of substantial fines for even minor compliance failures.
Countries including Germany, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Austria, Italy, and Sweden have invoked the Schengen Borders Code, which allows EU member states to temporarily reinstate controls in response to serious threats to public order or security.
With more inspections at internal borders, transport operators face increased exposure to penalties for issues such as incomplete paperwork, licence breaches, technical faults, and drivers’ hours violations.
Key Fines and Penalties Summarised
Missing or inaccurate documents
• Germany: €500 (waybill)
• France: €750 (waybill)
• Belgium: €1,800 (cargo documents)
• Netherlands: €1,500 (cargo documents)
No Community licence
• Poland: PLN 12,000
• Germany: €5,000
• Czech Republic: CZK 500,000
No permit for special transport (e.g. waste, hazardous goods)
• EU-wide: Fines in the tens of thousands of euros, plus possible vehicle seizure
Drivers’ hours violations
• Spain, Italy, Germany: Several thousand euros
Technical inspection failures
• Poland: Up to several thousand złoty
• Germany: Up to several thousand euros, with possible towing and registration certificate confiscation
Illegal immigrants found onboard
• UK: £6,000 per person (£10,000 for repeat offences)
• France: Up to €75,000
• Italy: €15,000 per person
The Beckchoice team monitors regulatory changes and works closely with trusted hauliers to ensure your cargo moves into and out of the UK smoothly and compliantly. If you have questions about EU transport regulations or need support with EU road freight, contact our team today.
Please note: Border checks and enforcement policies across the EU are subject to change depending on evolving political and security situations. Fines and inspection procedures can vary between countries and over time. Hauliers are advised to regularly consult official government sources and comply with all local regulations to avoid penalties. The measures described in this post reflect the situation as of mid-2025 and may be updated as new policies emerge.