COVID-19 border restrictions: lessons to learn

With the pandemic still at its peak in some parts of the world, and with fears of a second wave in others, unilateral border restrictions are still being put in place by countries, often with dramatic effects on goods transport and the essential workers and drivers who steer our products across international borders. 

European travel and tourism bodies unite in call for EU coordinated approach on travel restrictions

IRU joined travel and tourism bodies and unions across Europe in an unprecedented call for European Commission leadership in ending quarantine restrictions and developing an EU Testing Protocol for Travel – in a bid to save the livelihoods of more than 27 million Europeans who work in the sector.

COVID-19 still casting a shadow over French trucking firms

With the impact of the pandemic still being felt throughout the road transport industry, many small and medium enterprises are struggling to survive. Direct government financial support for these companies is urgently needed to prevent bankruptcies and job losses, and to support broader economic recovery. 

Mobility Package 1 enforcement: practical considerations by industry leaders

New EU rules on driving and rest times outlined in the Mobility Package 1 (MP1) have entered into effect. While their interpretation and application still raise questions, IRU is working closely with the European Commission and enforcers to clarify the new legislation.

Connected Automated Driving: opportunities and challenges for road transport

We often hear from our members about the importance of reliable and complete information on new technologies. The ARCADE CAD Knowledge Base is a platform for sharing such information with a view to facilitating the development of safe and workable automation solutions that meet existing challenges.

The EU’s new digital transport regulation will save operators up to EUR 27 billion

The electronic freight transport information (eFTI) regulation has been approved by the EU and will enter into force in August 2024. It establishes a legal framework for road, rail, maritime and air transport operators to share information with enforcement authorities in an electronic format. This is a crucial step as it entails significant benefits for the EU road freight transport.

Why driver skills assessment matters

Managing Director of AptiDrive, James Shuker, talks to IRU’s Director of Certification and Standards, Patrick Philipp, about the importance of targeted efforts to assess and train drivers.

EU steps on the gas towards hydrogen

The European Commission’s new hydrogen strategy is out and reinforces much of IRU’s vision on decarbonising long distance road transport for passengers and goods by 2050. 

Ukraine latest country to ratify e-CMR protocol

The Ukrainian government has ratified e-CMR, the electronic protocol of the standard consignment note under the United Nations Convention for the carriage of goods. This move from paper-based to electronic consignment notes will improve the efficiency and safety of goods transport.

Mobility Package 1 hits the road

After three years of discussion and debate, the European Union’s Mobility Package 1 has been adopted by the European Parliament.

IRU calls for €75 billion road transport investment under EU recovery plan

With discussions ongoing to reach an agreement on the European Commission’s proposed €750 billion Next Generation EU fund to support post pandemic recovery and steer future investments under the EU’s next multiannual financial framework (2021-27), IRU is calling for clear and targeted support for road transport companies.

Norway latest country to ratify e-CMR protocol

Norway has ratified the e-CMR protocol, joining the 25 other countries which have already acceded, and completing coverage across Scandinavia.

The need for efficient enforcement during deconfinement

Road transport is the backbone of global trade and the economy with enforcement authorities playing a pivotal role in ensuring compliance and safety on the road.

Important relief measures for EU road transport operators enter into force

A patchwork of administrative formalities has been the main challenge for road transport companies during COVID-19. To remove unnecessary burdens and provide flexibility for operators during COVID-19, the EU has approved a set of urgent measures to help transport companies cope with the pandemic’s impacts. IRU advocated for the extension of the validity of certificates and licences as well as for the extension of compliance deadlines with European Institutions and Member States. “It is a relief

The future of distance learning in road transport - part II

In the second part of IRU’s interviews with members about the future of distance learning in commercial transport, we talk to Peter Hari, responsible for dangerous goods and safety at ASTAG, the Swiss Road Transport Association.

German toll exemption a model to drive decarbonisation

The German Parliament voted to extend the existing exemption from road user charges for clean trucks, powered by CNG, LNG and electricity, until 2023.

IRU’s take on the European Commission guidelines for tourism and transport

As Member States are gradually de-confining, the European Commission published a package of guidelines to provide harmonised guidance for the ramp up of the transport and tourism sectors as well as the opening of borders.

Road transport stories: coach tourism, fighting for survival

Founded by Karl-Erik Bergh and his son Mikael in 1984, MK Bussresor is a coach tourism company operating from Sweden.