Improper cargo securing in the EU

Transporting cargo across Europe comes with strict rules, and one of the trickiest aspects for drivers and transport companies is securing the load. Often, people only start thinking about it when the truck is already pulled over by roadside inspectors, and a hefty fine is being written out. And that’s a mistake: in some countries, penalties can reach as high as €5,000. Let’s take a closer look at where and for what these fines are most severe.

Where are the highest fines and what are the amounts

Germany

Germany takes this extremely seriously. A driver can be fined anywhere from €35 to €120, but the biggest financial hit usually falls on the transport company — up to €5,000. On top of that, penalty points may be added, or the vehicle can even be stopped from continuing until the issue is fixed.

France

The French don’t take it lightly either: drivers face fines ranging from €135 to €750, and the carrier holds joint responsibility. Until the cargo is properly secured, your truck won’t be allowed to continue.

Italy, Netherlands, Romania

In Italy, such violations will cost a driver €85 to €338, and for repeat offenses, the company can face administrative sanctions.

In the Netherlands, there’s a fixed fine of €370, with the added risk that the truck may be detained.

Romania is interesting: drivers pay €60–120, while carriers can be fined €200–800, and your vehicle won’t be going anywhere until everything’s corrected.

Why it’s about more than just money

It’s a safety issue

Sloppy or improper cargo securing isn’t just a “technicality.” It’s a real accident risk that can endanger other road users or even the driver. Reputation damage after such incidents can cost far more than any fine.

Your business under scrutiny

Many European checks happen right on the highways, without any warning. Police open the trailer, examine how the load is secured, check documents. If your company already appears in databases of previous violators, future inspections will be even more rigorous.

How to avoid paying fines?

Follow the standards

The EU uses EN 12195-1, which covers everything in detail — from the tension force of tie-down straps to placement rules and anti-slip mats. If you’re transporting goods into Europe, it’s worth studying these requirements once so you don’t end up paying thousands of euros later.

Train your drivers

Safety briefings and training sessions might sound obvious, but they really work. A driver who knows how and what to secure is far less likely to create problems for you or your clients

Cargo securing is no small matter. It’s about your safety, your money, and your reputation. If you need deliveries to the EU done right, we at Neolit Logistics are always ready to handle it. Checks, standards, paperwork — we’ll take care of it all, so your business keeps running smoothly.

By the way, fines are not the only threat to carriers. Recently, in Europe and even in Ukraine, there have been more and more cases when logistics companies or drivers become victims of fraudsters. How to avoid unscrupulous partners and not lose cargo or money – we described in detail in the material “How to avoid falling for fraudsters in logistics.“