Hungary changes Easter truck ban at the last minute
Hungary is changing the rules for truck traffic restrictions and, instead of round-the-clock bans, is introducing so-called “night windows” that will allow carriers to operate between 22:00 and 06:00. This is the result of pressure from the transport industry and an attempt to ensure continuity of deliveries during the holiday period.
The restrictions apply to all heavy vehicles with a gross vehicle weight over 7.5 tonnes and will be in force only during daytime on three dates:
❌ April 3, 2026 (Good Friday) from 06:00 to 22:00,
❌ April 5, 2026 (Easter Sunday) from 06:00 to 22:00,
❌ April 6, 2026 (Easter Monday) from 06:00 to 22:00.
As a result, the previously planned restriction on Saturday, April 4 from 22:00 will not apply, and during the holidays carriers will be able to operate freely between 22:00 and 06:00.
According to the Ministry of Transport, the decision was made at the request of industry organizations and aims to ensure supply continuity during the holiday period. This will give transport companies greater flexibility in planning operations. The Hungarian Road Transport Association (MKFE) has long advocated for permanent night exemptions from weekend bans, allowing trucks to regularly operate between 22:00 and 06:00 when passenger traffic is lower.
Hungary maintains a broad list of exemptions. The ban does not apply to the transport of live animals, milk and dairy products, fresh and frozen meat, fresh bakery goods, perishable products, eggs, fresh (unprocessed) fruits and vegetables, as well as grain.
Exemptions also apply to empty runs directly related to such transport, e.g. between base and loading/unloading points. In the case of perishable goods, transport documents must include the label “perishable”. The driver must also carry a declaration issued by the shipper or carrier. Additionally, vehicles must be marked with special stickers, including “d” for perishable food and “a” for agricultural products.
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