Each summer, as the sun climbs high over Europe and holidaymakers set off on vacation, roads around Europe inevitably become more congested than normal. To mitigate this, many European countries apply seasonal driving bans and restrictions on the use of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) in a bid to ease road traffic conditions.
Whilst this may be great news for sun seekers and individual road users, this can have significant implications if you’re exporting to or importing goods from across the European continent.
In this article, we explain what UK businesses need to know about the upcoming truck driving bans and restrictions, and what your business can to do to avoid any potential disruption this summer.
Click here for an overview of the shutdowns
Summer 2025 European driving bans and restrictions
Between July and August, most HGVs over 7.5 tonnes are banned from driving in Europe on weekends on certain roads and motorway networks. These vehicles are also subject to restrictions on public holidays in some countries. Bans typically start from 22:00hrs the night before public holidays begin.
Our handy guide below details the key restrictions to be aware of across various European countries this summer:
France
Every Saturday starting from the last Saturday of July until the last Saturday of August there is a driving ban between 07:00 and 19:00, and on the following Sundays from 00:00 to 22:00. Bans will also apply on the following public holidays:
- 12th July: 22:00 – 24:00
- 13th July: 00:00 – 24:00
- 14th July: 00:00 – 24:00
- 14th August: 22:00 – 24:00
- 15th August: 00:00 – 22:00
Germany
A general driving ban applies on Sundays between 00:00 and 22:00. Bans will also apply every Saturday between 1st July and 31st August from 07:00 to 20:00.
Italy
A general driving ban applies on Sundays through June, July, August and September from 07:00 to 22:00. Bans will also apply on the following public holidays:
- 5th July: 0800 – 1600
- 6th July: 0700 – 2200
- 12th July: 0800 – 1600
- 13th July: 0700 – 2200
- 19th July: 0800 – 1600
- 20th July: 0700 – 2200
- 25th July: 1600 – 2200
- 26th July: 0800 – 1600
- 27th July: 0700 – 2200
- 1st August: 16:00 – 22:00
- 2nd August: 08:00 – 22:00
- 3rd August: 07:00 – 22:00
- 8th August: 16:00 – 22:00
- 9th August: 08:00 – 22:00
- 10th August: 07:00 – 22:00
- 15th August: 07:00 – 22:00
- 16th August: 08:00 – 16:00
- 17th August: 07:00 – 22:00
- 23rd August: 08:00 – 16:00
- 24th August: 07:00 – 22:00
Poland
From the last Friday of June until the last Sunday of August, there is a driving ban for HGVs over 12 tonnes on all roads. The following times apply:
- Fridays: 18:00 to 22:00
- Saturdays: 08:00 – 14:00
- Sundays: 08:00 – 22:00
Bans will also apply on the following public holidays, and the day prior from 18:00 to 22:00:
- 14th August: 18:00 – 22:00
- 15th August: 08:00 – 22:00
Spain
A driving ban will apply on Friday 15th August for the Spanish public holiday, from 08:00 to 24:00 hours.
Austria
A general driving ban applies on Saturdays between 15:00 and 24:00, and on Sundays between 00:00 and 24:00 hours. A driving ban will apply to the public holiday Friday 15th August, from 00:00 to 22:00 hours.
Other things to consider
If your business is importing from or exporting goods into the European market, there are several other things to consider to ensure that your business and supply chain continues to run smoothly this summer.
- Production delays
As well as driving restrictions and bans, many European factories close during the summer months which means more workers go on holiday, and production slows or halts altogether. This can lead to backlogs, limited product availability, and longer lead times. - Shipping bottlenecks
The summer period often causes uneven demand for transportation. Before and after the summer break, there’s typically a surge in shipping volumes, which can congest ports, roads, and infrastructure. - Driver shortages and increased costs
Driver capacity is also significantly reduced during the summer months, as many drivers take their annual leave. This limited availability, combined with increased demand, often leads to higher shipping costs and reduced flexibility in scheduling. Businesses may find it more difficult to secure transport at short notice, especially for time-sensitive shipments. - Reduced communication
With many workers on leave and sector specific factory shutdowns, customer service and support channels may be slower to respond. This can delay the resolution of urgent issues, customs queries, or unexpected disruptions.
Exemptions to driving bans and restrictions
Whilst the summer months can add more complexity to moving freight by road throughout the EU, it’s worth emphasising that some vehicles are exempt from the summer driving bans and restrictions. This includes those transporting perishable goods, refrigerated products, or servicing time-critical events like trade shows or sporting events. Taking the time to check if and how you will be affected will enable you to plan ahead, which could make a big difference later down the line.
Fines for non-compliance
Failing to comply with driving bans and road usage restrictions could lead to fines of up to 1,800 Euros which both the driver and haulier are liable to pay. Other sanctions can be applied, which may include vehicles being seized by the relevant authorities.
To avoid any unexpected costs or disruption, we recommend checking any potential driving restrictions well in advance. Further information on driving restrictions can be found by visiting the official website of each country’s road traffic authority, or get in touch and speak to one of our Accelerate EU specialists today.
Planning ahead with Baxter Freight
At Baxter Freight, we understand the challenges that seasonal restrictions can pose. That’s why we offer tailored logistics solutions to help you stay ahead:
- Expert Problem Solvers: Our teams in Consolidate and Accelerate EU specialise in navigating complex road freight scenarios, ensuring your goods move across borders without delay.
- Local Knowledge: Through our network of partners across the EU, we have the knowledge and experience to mitigate the impact of any local bans and restrictions.
- Flexible Transport Options: From express vans to weekend and evening collections, we adapt to suit your needs.
- Dedicated Account Manager: You’ll receive constant communication and updates throughout your goods’ journey ensuring transparency and peace of mind.
Stay ahead of the curve
Moving your goods across Europe may be more difficult to navigate during the summer. However, with some advance planning and the right support, you can mitigate any disruption, keeping your goods moving and your supply chain running smoothly.
At Baxter Freight, we specialise in creating bespoke solutions to navigate complex hurdles whether you’re moving goods by road, rail, air or sea. Get in touch with our team of experts today and let us help you stay one step ahead. We are your Solutions Architects.
