The new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) – What it means for the haulage sector

04 November 2025

The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to bring major changes for everyone crossing into the Schengen area – not just holidaymakers, but professional drivers too. For the haulage industry, this new system will significantly impact how journeys to and from the EU are managed.

The EES is an EU-wide electronic system designed to record the entry and exit of third-country nationals (including UK citizens) at Schengen borders. It will replace the old passport stamping method with automated checks, logging every crossing digitally.

One of the biggest implications is for the 90/180-day rule, which limits non-EU nationals to a maximum of 90 days within any rolling 180-day period in the Schengen area. With the EES in place, compliance will be tightly monitored – meaning far less flexibility for “quick in-and-out” trips.

For UK hauliers, this could present real challenges. Every entry and exit will count towards a driver’s 90-day allowance, including short or repeated trips for deliveries. If a driver reaches the limit, border officials may refuse entry, impose penalties, or require the vehicle to return to the UK, potentially disrupting delivery schedules and putting UK operators at a competitive disadvantage compared to EU-based firms.

Importantly, personal travel also counts towards the 90-day total – so even holidays in Europe will reduce the number of workdays a driver can legally spend in the Schengen zone.

So, what should hauliers do going forward?

• Track driver days carefully – Monitor how many days each driver spends in the Schengen area (both work and leisure) to avoid breaching the 90-day limit.
• Plan contingencies – Have backup drivers or vehicles ready when someone nears their limit.
• Engage with policymakers – Stay in touch with the UK Government and industry bodies to push for a potential professional driver exemption.
• Expect and plan for delays – The new biometric and digital checks may cause longer processing times at key border points.
• Stay informed on implementation – The EES began phased introduction on 12 October 2025, with full rollout expected by April 2026.

The new Entry/Exit System will make border checks stricter and the 90/180-day rule harder to manage. Hauliers who plan ahead, track driver days, and stay informed will be best placed to avoid disruption and keep goods moving smoothly across Europe.

Need help navigating the EES changes?
Our transport law specialists can guide your business through the new rules, helping you manage driver days, plan contingencies, and stay compliant with Schengen requirements. Get in touch with our team today to ensure your operations run smoothly across Europe.

This article was written by Libby Pritchard.