June 23, 2026
From 1 July 2026, new EU legislation will implement new requirements for international transport operations using light commercial vehicles (LCVs) between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes.
Vehicles operating internationally will be required to use tachographs and comply with Regulation (EC) 561/2006. Drivers will be subject to regulated driving and rest periods, including mandatory breaks after 4.5 hours of driving, daily rest requirements and weekly driving limits. These changes are expected to impact transit times and operational flexibility across the European express transport sector.
Maurice Ward Group is actively implementing innovative solutions to ensure our extensive owned and contracted van fleet continues to operate efficiently under the new regulatory framework.
The new legislation applies only to international LCV transport and does not affect domestic operations. With more than 50 offices and logistics facilities across 28 European countries, Maurice Ward Group is uniquely positioned to adapt transport flows and maintain service performance. By combining our extensive European network, strong national fleets and local operational expertise, we can implement strategically planned load-swap operations at national borders This approach enables shipments to continue moving efficiently, reduces potential delays and ensures full compliance with the new regulations.
Combined with our Express Road service, 24/7 operational support and established European presence, these solutions will significantly reduce the effects of the legislative changes and help maintain the fast transit times our customers rely on.
Maurice Ward Group has proactively adapted its operations to these regulatory changes, ensuring continued flexibility, reliability and speed for time-critical shipments throughout Europe. We remain committed to helping our customers move their shipments quickly, efficiently and compliantly across Europe.
The first ever ‘cargo only’ flight was recorded in November 1910 in the USA, using a Wright Model B aeroplane that flew 65 miles carrying a package of silk. The business owner used the pioneering transport more as a PR stunt to celebrate the opening of his store, with the bundle of silk cut into individual pieces and glued onto souvenir postcards.
At Maurice Ward Group, we believe that reliable road transport requires continuous investment. By regularly modernising our European road fleet, we can maintain the performance our customers depend on while supporting more sustainable road transport.
Recently, Maurice Ward Budapest took part in PharmaLog 2026, organised by NavigátorVilág. Pharma Account Manager Gábor Flórián represented Maurice Ward & Co. in an expert panel on pharmaceutical air freight, sharing practical experience and highlighting our expertise in this specialised sector.
On 15 July 2026, the UK–India Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement came into force. Trade between the two countries was worth approximately £48 billion in 2025.
