Starting in 2026, Germany will automatically penalize overloaded trucks on its motorways.
A new system for monitoring the weight of commercial vehicles will be implemented on German autobahns from 2026. The innovative technology aims to protect road infrastructure and improve traffic safety.
Key Changes:
· Automatic piezoelectric sensors embedded in the road surface
· Instant detection of overloaded vehicles
· LED displays showing license plates of violators
· Mandatory re-checking on BALM calibration scales
Penalties:
· Fines from €30 to €452 for exceeding permissible mass
· Ban on further movement if overload exceeds 5%
· Requirement to unload excess cargo
Pilot Project:
The first system will be installed on the A4 motorway (Aachen-Cologne) before the Rur-Scholle-Süd rest area. Up to 500 trucks will be checked daily. By 2028, the network will be expanded to 16 control points across Germany.
The new system aims to address road infrastructure wear - according to BALM data, in 2024 over 16,000 inspected trucks significantly exceeded permissible load standards.