Beginning January 1, 2026, trucks in transit through Denmark will no longer be subject to the restriction of 25-hour parking in state rest areas. This was announced by the Danish Ministry of Transport, justifying the decision on grounds of fair competition and in the reduction of the administrative burden imposed by the regulations in force since 2018.
This measure represents a significant change for the international freight transport, particularly affecting foreign drivers travelling long distance on the Danish motorway network.
A regulation controversial from its origin
The 25-hour limitation was implemented in 2018 with the aim of avoiding the abusive use of rest areas as a permanent parking place, mainly by foreign fleets. However, from the beginning it was questioned by sector operators, considering that it penalized unequally and complicated the logistical operation.
With the new decision, Denmark seeks to adapt to a more balanced framework in line with community policies and promote a greater level playing field in road transport.
There will be no unlimited parking or weekly cabin rest.
The Danish Ministry has clarified that the removal of the 25-hour limit does not imply tolerance for indefinite parking nor to prolonged overnight stays as an alternative to statutory weekly rest.
In this regard, it is recalled that the Regulation of the European Union expressly prohibits drivers from taking their regular weekly rest (more than 45 hours) inside the vehicle. This provision seeks improve working conditions in the sector and reduce precarious situations.
Transition until 2026: control by the Færdselsstyrelsen
During the transition period, until the regulations come into force in 2026, it will be the Danish Transport Agency (Færdselsstyrelsen) the person responsible for monitor compliance with the rules at rest areas on the state network. This agency took over this task in 2019, replacing the police in inspecting heavy vehicle parking.
The agency will have specific funding until the end of 2025From then on, the police will take over enforcement of general parking regulations.
Impact on freight transport in Europe
This legislative modification marks a change of direction in parking management for trucks in Denmark. Although it eliminates a significant operational burden, the focus now shifts to the compliance with European standards on rest periods and the correct use of available infrastructure.
The logistics sector, both Danish and international, is closely watching how this reform will be implemented and what effects it will have on the competition between national and foreign companies.
Source: Transportation up to date
