Italy: New Rules for Loading and Unloading

The Italian Infrastructure Decree (Decree-Law of May 21, 2025, no. 73), converted into Law no. 105 of July 18, 2025, introduces significant changes for the road transport sector in Italy. Beginning September 1, 2025, new rules will govern vehicle waiting times during loading and unloading operations across the country.

These measures are intended to improve efficiency in Italian logistics operations, but they also introduce new obligations and potential costs for companies involved.

Key Points

• Reduced free time: maximum free waiting time reduced from 2 hours to 90 minutes per operation, counted from arrival.

• Compensation for delays: carriers entitled to €100 per hour or fraction of delay, adjusted annually by ISTAT FOI.

• Joint liability: consignor, loader, owner, and consignee jointly liable for compensation.

• Idle time included: waiting due to inactivity of consignor, loader, or consignee is included.

• Proof of arrival: arrival documented via GPS or second-generation smart tachograph.

• Scope: applies to all types of transport contracts in Italy, written or not.
  

Transition Period

Discussions are ongoing between the Italian government and industry associations to clarify the application of these measures.

Next Steps

We encourage our clients operating in Italy to evaluate how these requirements may affect their activities and to stay updated as further details emerge. Our teams are available to provide guidance during this transition.