News and Insights

Winter “Ski-Day” Freight Bans 2026

If you’re planning freight routes through France this winter, it’s important to be aware of the seasonal “ski-day” driving restrictions. These rules aim to reduce congestion during peak winter traffic in Alpine regions and ensure safe journeys for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know for 2026.

What Are Ski-Day Restrictions?

During the winter ski season, France enforces additional driving bans for heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) on specific Saturdays. These bans focus on major access routes to the Alps and apply to trucks over 7.5 tonnes.

For 2026, the ski-day restrictions apply on the following Saturdays:

Time: 07:00 – 18:00

Which Routes Are Affected?

The ski-day bans mainly impact key motorways and national roads leading to popular ski areas, including:

Outside these routes, the restrictions don’t generally apply, but local authorities may enforce regional variations, so always check official bulletins and road signage before planning your journey.

Winter Equipment Requirements

While not a driving ban, mountain regions in France enforce winter tyre or snow chain requirements between 1 November 2025 and 31 March 2026. Heavy transport vehicles must either be fitted with 3PMSF winter tyres or carry approved chains. Failure to comply can result in fines and delays.

Tips for Truckers and Freight Operators

By staying informed and prepared, freight operators can keep deliveries on schedule while staying safe during France’s ski season.

At Viamaster International, we pride ourselves on navigating Europe’s complex transport rules efficiently. From the Alps to the rest of Europe, our team ensures your goods arrive on time — every time.