International freight in 2025: the new rules
Several important things changed for international freight in 2025: the EU–Ukraine road transport agreement was extended, carriers face new document requirements and the rules for hazardous goods, including lithium batteries, became stricter.
The EU–Ukraine road transport agreement is extended
On 20 June 2024 Ukraine and the EU extended their road freight agreement until 30 June 2025, with an option for six more months. This makes it easier for Ukrainian companies to work in the EU market, with less paperwork and fewer administrative barriers.
What carriers now need
- A licence in English. An extract of the international haulage licence in English, with a QR code.
- Proof of loading. A driver travelling empty must carry a document confirming the next load.
- Type of carriage. It is confirmed by consignment notes or customs declarations.
- Returning empty. When entering Ukraine with an empty truck, the previous carriage must be confirmed.
- A windscreen sticker. Vehicles operating under the agreement carry a special 5 cm sticker.
Hazardous goods: stricter from 1 January 2025
New rules for hazardous goods, including lithium and sodium batteries, came into force in Europe:
- new UN numbers for more precise classification;
- a mandatory Dangerous Goods Declaration and a certificate confirming the battery charge is no more than 30%;
- a six-month transition period for rail, road and inland waterways, while air freight must comply immediately, without exceptions.
Overall, the changes aim at safety, less red tape and stricter environmental standards. If you ship batteries or other hazardous goods, check the document requirements with your manager before shipping.
