NEW REGULATION IN SPAIN: AUTHORIZATION TO TRANSPORT UP TO 44 TONNES

A measure to improve efficiency and reduce emissions in domestic road transport

The Spanish Government has approved Order PJC/780/2025, published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (Official State Gazette) on July 23, 2025, which amends the General Vehicle Regulations to allow certain combinations of trucks to operate with a maximum authorized weight of 44 tonnes.

This measure, long awaited by the transport and logistics sector, will come into force on October 23, 2025, and represents an important step towards greater efficiency and sustainability in national transport operations.

 What exactly does this change involve?

Until now, the general limit in Spain was 40 tonnes.

With the new regulation, the following vehicle combinations will be allowed to reach 44 tonnes:

• Articulated vehicles with at least five axles;
• Road trains consisting of a three-axle motor vehicle and a two- or three-axle trailer.

The purpose of this modification is to optimize freight transport, reduce the number of trips, and therefore lower emissions and improve the sector’s overall efficiency.

What type of transport does it apply to?

It is important to emphasize that this modification applies only within Spanish territory.

Order PJC/780/2025 has an exclusively national scope, as it amends an internal regulation — the General Vehicle Regulations — without altering the limits set by European legislation.

At the international level, Directive 96/53/EC remains in force, establishing a maximum weight of 40 tonnes for cross-border transport, except in cases of combined or intermodal transport (for example, when a truck carries a 40- or 45-foot container), where 44 tonnes are permitted.

This means that a Spanish truck loaded to 44 tonnes cannot cross the border into another EU country unless it meets the specific conditions of intermodal transport.

What does this mean for transport companies?

Companies operating mainly within Spain will be able to benefit from this new load capacity, provided their vehicles comply with the required technical and axle configurations established by law.

However, companies carrying out international routes must continue to respect the European limit of 40 tonnes, except in recognized intermodal operations.

It is advisable to review contracts, insurance policies, and logistics routes to ensure regulatory compliance for each journey.

The authorization to operate with 44 tonnes in Spain represents a positive step for the competitiveness and sustainability of domestic transport.

However, its application is limited to Spanish territory and does not affect international transport, which remains governed by current European regulations.

At TRANSPORTS PORQUERES, we remain attentive to legislative changes affecting the sector, ensuring that our clients and partners receive up-to-date information and specialized guidance.