The introduction of mandatory tachograph use for 3.5-metric-ton vehicles will significantly change the workforce structure in international road transport. The rules on driving and rest times will gradually phase out the model based on excessive driving and favor disciplined drivers who are familiar with using the tachograph.
In the short term, the number of available drivers may decrease, as some of those who have been working without strictly complying with the rules will leave the market. In the medium term, however, the sector will become more stable and professional, and the demand for well-trained drivers will increase.
Key aspects:
- The introduction of tachographs for 3.5-metric-ton vehicles will change the profile of drivers in international transport
- In the short term, there may be a decrease in the number of available drivers.
- Disciplined drivers who comply with driving and rest times will be more sought after.
- Knowing how to use a tachograph is becoming essential for employment
- In the medium term, the market will become more professional and stable.
1. Will the number of available drivers be reduced?
The realistic answer is nuanced:
- Yes, in the short term;
- Not necessarily in the medium term;
- Quality will increase, while quantity will decrease.
2. What type of drivers will exit the market?
2.1. “Endurance drivers” – the category most affected
This category includes drivers who:
- I frequently drive 12–15 hours a day;
- accepts deliveries "anytime, anywhere";
- are paid per trip, not based on time;
- avoided heavy vehicles precisely so as not to be subject to tachograph rules.
These drivers will either leave the zone or try to remain there temporarily, but the risk of being pulled over will be significantly higher, and it will be more difficult to avoid penalties due to digital evidence.
The direct effect is a numerical decrease in the active labor force in the first 6–12 months after the regulation comes into force.
2.2. "Occasional" drivers
These include:
- couriers;
- suppliers;
- support staff who occasionally make international trips.
In general, these drivers have no time discipline and no real interest in rules. For them, the introduction of the tachograph generates stress, personal legal responsibility, and the direct risk of penalties being imposed on them.
As a result, many will turn down jobs that involve international transport or cabotage.
3. What type of drivers will remain and be most sought after
3.1. Disciplined drivers – the new market profile
Drivers who meet the following criteria will be increasingly in demand:
• understand and comply with driving and rest times;
• use the tachograph correctly;
• communicate effectively with the dispatcher;
• know how to manage waiting times, breaks, and rest periods.
These drivers will have greater bargaining power regarding salary, per diem, and working conditions.
3.2. Migration from truck to 3.5 t (C → B)
It is likely that some experienced drivers of category C or C+E vehicles will migrate to the 3.5 t segment. The main reasons are:
- lower operational stress;
- more comfortable resting conditions;
- more flexible routes
These drivers are extremely valuable because they are already familiar with the tachograph rules and operational procedures.
4. The need to know about the tachograph
Yes, knowledge of the tachograph will become essential and will directly influence employability.
4.1. Mandatory knowledge for drivers
Drivers must master the following:
- tachograph modes: driving, other work, availability, rest;
- manual entries;
- handling exceptional situations (missing card, vehicle change);
- correct behavior during inspection;
- the difference between a break and rest.
Drivers who do not acquire these skills will be eliminated by compliance-oriented companies.
5. Workforce development – realistic assessment
5.1. Short term (2026–2027)
In the short term, the workforce will decline in numbers. There will be refusals, fluctuations, and staff shortages on certain international routes.
5.2. Medium term (2027–2028)
In the medium term, the market will stabilize. Trained drivers, clear standards, and greater operational predictability will emerge.
The problem will no longer be a general shortage of drivers, but a shortage of well-trained drivers.
6. Important side effects
6.1. Changing the driver–dispatcher relationship
The informal "wait a little longer" model will disappear. The dispatcher becomes jointly legally responsible, and communication and planning become essential.
6.2. Increased psychological pressure on drivers
Drivers may feel a strong sense of being monitored, which can lead to initial resistance. Companies that do not invest in training and support risk losing staff.
7. Conclusion
Regulation does not destroy the market, but it does eliminate improvisation and the model based on extreme effort. The 3.5-metric-ton segment will become more professional.
The workforce will initially decrease in volume, but quality will increase, and disciplined drivers will enjoy better earnings and stability in the medium term.
Frequently asked questions about the impact of the 3.5 t tachograph on drivers and the workforce
Founder and CEO of Paneuropa Logistics
I am György Bokor, Founder and CEO of Paneuropa Logistics. I have been active in the logistics industry for more than 20 years, focusing on international transportation, freight forwarding, last-mile deliveries and customs services. I am passionate about developing efficient solutions that connect businesses across Europe.