Scope of the check
What is checked during an inspection?
- Roadworthiness of the vehicle and securing of the load
- Presence of all necessary authorisations and permits (vehicle documents, driving licence, EU licence, transport permits, etc.)
- Presence and functioning of the required tachograph
- A valid driver card for the driver being checked
- Recording and presentation of driving and rest times for the current day and the preceding 56 days — including a check for infringements
- Where an exemption applies: evidence substantiating it (e.g. an employment contract)
Consequences
Possible consequences of missing evidence
If a driver cannot produce the required data or documents, this can lead to a fine against the driver and — depending on the circumstances — against the company as well. In certain cases the journey can be prohibited until the matter is clarified.
Preparation
How to prepare yourself and your drivers
- Prepare your driversPrepare your drivers in general terms for possible roadside inspections.
- Clarify what must be carriedMake sure every driver knows which documents and records must be carried.
- Issue a document folderEquip your drivers with a document folder containing all relevant documents and records in order.
- Translate the evidenceWhere an exemption is applied: make sure the relevant supporting documents are also available in the national language of every country your vehicle passes through.
Well-prepared drivers and functioning internal processes reduce not only the risk of an inspection ending badly, but also the duration of the inspection itself. Our urgent action plan in the implementation and technology section shows how to build these processes.
Back to the overview: consequences and fines.