Cabotage in the EU: the rules explained simply
CityFreight · 2026-05-28
Cabotage refers to transport operations within one EU country carried out by a carrier established in another EU country. Example: a lorry registered in Poland makes a cross-border delivery to Germany and then takes on a transport operation within Germany. Such domestic operations are permitted, but clearly regulated.
The basic rule: 3 journeys in 7 days
Under the EU regulation, following an incoming laden cross-border journey a carrier may carry out up to three cabotage operations in the host country within seven days. The period begins with the unloading of the incoming load.
Cooling-off period
To prevent systematic cabotage, a four-day waiting period applies: after the permitted cabotage has been used up, the same vehicle may carry out further cabotage in the same country no earlier than four days later. This rule was introduced with the EU Mobility Package.
Proof requirements
For inspections, the cross-border entry and every cabotage journey must be demonstrable – for example via CMR consignment notes showing the dates of loading and unloading. Infringements can result in substantial fines.
What does that mean for your transport?
What matters for clients is this: a reputable forwarder plans routes so that the cabotage rules are observed – which ensures legal certainty and avoids delays due to inspections. CityFreight relies on transshipment-free direct traffic with transparent documentation and complies with the applicable EU requirements.
This article is for general information and does not replace legal advice. The applicable EU regulations in force are authoritative.