Road Transport Operations Finland
Finland is located in northern Europe. It is one of the world’s most northern and geographically remote countries and is subject to a severe climate. Nearly two-thirds of Finland is blanketed by thick woodlands, making it the most densely forested country in Europe. There are currently circa 5.5 million people living in Finland.
Originally a part of Sweden from the 12th century until 1809, Finland was then a Russian grand duchy until, following the Russian Revolution, the Finns declared independence on December 6, 1917.
Cabotage
UK hauliers may carry goods to, through or from the country,. Goods can also be carried from Finland to a third country and vice versa if permitted by the terms of any agreement between the three countries. Cabotage is permitted.
Dangerous Goods
Finland is party to the ADR agreement, therefore all ADR requirements will apply.. The following organisations may be able to assist UK carriers moving Hazardous Chemicals to Finland.
Finnish Transport and Communication Agency
PO Box 320
FI-00059 Traficom, Finland
Tel: +358 29 534 5000
Email: kirjaamo@traficom.fi
Email: anu.hakkinen@traficom.fi
Web: https://www.traficom.fi/fi/
Class 7
Finnish Centre for Radiation and Nuclear Safety
PO Box. 14 FIN-00881 Helsinki
Tel: +358 9 759 881
Fax: + 358 9 759 88500
You can also visit the UNECE website at the link below & select the country name applicable.
http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/publi/adr/country-info_e.html
Abnormal Loads
Special authorisation must be obtained if vehicles/loads exceed maximum permitted weights and dimensions. The Finnish governments view on whether a Permit for Abnormal Load movements is required is:
'An abnormal transport is a transport of a vehicle or vehicle combination, having either no-load or an indivisible load, which exceeds at least one authorised dimension or weight allowed in normal road traffic in Finland'.
All abnormal load operators will require a keeper’s certificate to prove ownership of the trailer which must be carried as part of the vehicle documents at all times.
An application form can be downloaded below:
Movement Restrictions
There are no driving restrictions on public holidays or weekends.
Road, Tunnel & Bridge Tolls
Currently none applicable that we are aware of.
Taxation
There are no transit taxes. Goods vehicles can import a full tank of fuel.
Customs
TIR Carnets are accepted for loads crossing the country. ATA Carnets are accepted for certain temporary imports. CMR notes are required.
Vehicle Legal Documentation
- Green Card required, plus original vehicle registration docs.
- A GB plate must be fitted to the rear of vehicle/trailer.
- Trailer Registration Certificate is a requirement. To register for a trailer certificate visit https://www.gov.uk/register-trailer-to-take-abroad
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Maximum Weights & Dimensions |
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Height |
4.2 metres |
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Width |
2.6 metres |
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Length |
Artic 16.5 metres Road Train 18.75 metres |
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Weight |
Artic up to 48 tonnes (subject to a number of axles) |
Safety Equipment
It is not compulsory to carry snow chains but they MUST be used in winter months. Studded and winter tyres are compulsory in December, January & February. Other requirements include:
- Dipped headlights are compulsory at all times
- Fire extinguishers are advised generally but are compulsory on Dangerous Goods vehicles
- Hi-Vis jackets must be worn in the event of a breakdown or accident
- Warning triangles are compulsory and should be placed 50 metres behind the vehicle in the event of a breakdown
- Seat belts must be worn
Driver Legal Documents
- Full passport required but no visa required.
- UK driving licence or International driving permit.
- Letter from employer giving driver permission to drive vehicle (attestation letter and form).
If the UK fully leaves the EU on 31 January 2021, HGV drivers will require travel insurance with healthcare cover
Speed Limits
In built-up areas, the general speed limit is 50 km/h. This is indicated by the sign for a built-up area or by a normal speed limit sign. Outside built-up areas the general speed limit is 80 km/h unless a road sign indicates otherwise. In many built-up areas, a separate road sign is used to indicate a 30 km/h or 40 km/h speed limit for a particular road or area.
Following the sign for a built-up area a 60 km/h speed limit may also be displayed. In this case, the speed limit concerns only that particular road; on the other roads, the general 50 km/h limit for built-up areas will apply, unless a road sign indicates otherwise. In a residential precinct indicated by a road sign, you must adjust your driving speed to walking pace. If there are no pedestrians the maximum speed limit is 20 km/h.
In Finland, there are also winter speed limits. During the winter, most of the 100 km/h speed limits are reduced to 80 km/ h. On motorways, the 120 km/h limit is reduced to 100 km/h. On some stretches of road, there are variable speed limits used throughout the year, according to the road and weather conditions.
Lights
The use of dipped beams or daytime running lights is mandatory at all times.
The following links provide guidance and further information
British Embassy
Itäinen Puistotie 17
00140 Helsinki
Finland
Tel: +358 (0)9 2286 5100
Web: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-helsinki
Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency
Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency P.O. Box 33
00521 HELSINKI
Finland
Tel: +358 295 34 3000
Web: https://vayla.fi/web/en