Vans & light commercial vehiclesRest in a bed, van outside the door
Since 1 July 2026 the EU driving and rest time rules apply to vans over 2.5 t in international transport. Without a sleeping berth, rest may not be taken in the vehicle – here your van parks right at the motel.
Weekly rest – example
45 hours, e.g. Friday evening to Sunday afternoon = 2 nights at the Business-Motel Heimsheim:
For employed drivers, the employer pays the accommodation for the regular weekly rest. Invoice to your company address on request.
What changed for vans in 2026
- Since 1 July 2026: vehicles over 2.5 t up to 3.5 t gross weight in international commercial goods transport and cabotage need a smart tachograph (version 2) and are subject to the driving and rest times of Regulation (EC) 561/2006.
- Daily rest: 11 hours, reducible to 9 hours at most three times a week. In the vehicle only if it is stationary and has suitable sleeping facilities for each driver – so not in a van without a sleeping berth.
- Regular weekly rest (45 hours): never in the vehicle, but in suitable accommodation. The employer bears the cost.
- Exemptions exist, for example, for craftsmen carrying their own materials or tools locally. Purely domestic transport follows national rules. If in doubt, ask your employer or the German authority BALM.
Made for van drivers
- 20 XL parking spaces right at the motel – for vans, panel vans and combinations with trailer.
- Keep an eye on your load: parking in front of the room, outdoor area under video surveillance.
- Self check-in around the clock – late at night or at the weekend, no reception needed.
- Rooms with bed & shower, Wi-Fi, soundproofed rooms.
- Invoice to the company – dispatchers can book room and parking for their drivers.
- Right on the A8, exit Heimsheim (46), between Stuttgart and Karlsruhe. Charging station for electric vans on site.
Frequently asked questions
May I sleep in my van?
If the trip falls under the EU driving and rest time rules: daily rest and reduced weekly rest only in a stationary vehicle with suitable sleeping facilities for each driver, the regular weekly rest never in the vehicle. A van without a sleeping berth is not enough.
Since when does this apply to vans?
Since 1 July 2026 for vehicles over 2.5 t up to 3.5 t in international commercial goods transport and cabotage. The smart tachograph has been mandatory since then as well.
Who pays for the accommodation?
For the regular weekly rest, the employer must pay the accommodation of employed drivers. At the Business-Motel the invoice can go directly to the company.
Where do I park the loaded van?
On one of the 20 XL parking spaces right at the motel for €25 per night. The outdoor area is under video surveillance.
What does a weekend cost?
2 nights room (€59 each) and 2 nights XL parking (€25 each) cost €168 in total.
How do I prove the rest in accommodation?
Keep the invoice or booking confirmation. On request you get the invoice to your company address.