Working and rest time: new regulations for delivery van drivers
The Federal Council has opened the consultation on amendments to the working and rest time regulations (ARV 1). In line with EU regulations, Switzerland now also wants to subject delivery van drivers in commercial goods transport to ARV 1 in cross-border traffic. Nothing will change for traffic within Switzerland, as Astra writes.
From July 1, 2026, the same working, driving and rest time regulations will apply in the EU for delivery van drivers of goods transports in cross-border traffic as for truck drivers. In terms of road safety, the EU regulations will also apply to cross-border traffic in Switzerland. The Ordinance on Working and Rest Periods for Professional Motor Vehicle Drivers (Chauffeur Ordinance, ARV 1) must therefore be amended and extended. With the revision, the Federal Council is also implementing the motion 20.4478 Dittli "Equal opportunities for working and rest time regulations", which was passed by Parliament.
The new regulation will affect around 1,200 vans and a maximum of 3,200 drivers in Switzerland, according to the Astra press release.
More safety on long journeys
Delivery vans that are used exclusively for the transportation of goods in Switzerland are not affected by the amendment. The change should only apply to cross-border traffic. According to Astra, time checks are expected to increase road safety due to the generally longer distances and the associated increased time spent behind the wheel. Delivery vans are not conspicuous in Swiss road accident statistics, so there is no need for action in domestic traffic for reasons of road safety.
Launched on November 8, 2023 Consultation lasts until February 23, 2024 according to the information provided.
