What is border control?

Border control is an important tool used by countries to ensure security and combat illegal immigration. These measures are introduced at a country’s border to check people and goods. Normally, internal borders within the Schengen Area are free of systematic controls. The Schengen Area consists of 29 countries (the Schengen countries). Within these countries, residents of the European Union can travel freely. However, there are cases in which countries may implement temporary controls. For example, this can happen in response to threats such as terrorism, large migration flows, or serious disruptions of public order. These temporary measures typically last six months but may be extended to a maximum of two years.

Border control in the Netherlands

Starting on December 9, 2024, the Netherlands will implement additional border controls to combat human smuggling and illegal immigration. These checks will focus on both passenger traffic and freight transport. It is not yet clear how intensive the controls will be. According to the Dutch government, the measure is being introduced in response to a significant influx of asylum seekers.

What are the consequences?

The introduction of temporary border controls will have an impact on the transport sector. Waiting times at borders will increase, especially at busy crossings such as those with Germany and Poland. This also leads to higher costs, such as missed connections and lost productivity. Administrative expenses will also rise. Transport companies need to prepare for additional checks, such as ensuring proper documentation and identification are readily available. This also brings practical challenges. There are several steps you can take to prepare for this measure:

Digital planning: Use route optimization software and real-time information about waiting times at borders to estimate how long your journey will take.

Documentation readiness: Ensure that all required documents, such as consignment notes and certificates, are in order.

Flexibility: Build extra time into your delivery schedules to accommodate unexpected delays.

What will be checked?

During temporary border controls, checks will be conducted on people, vehicles, and goods. For individuals, identity documents, immigration status, and background information will be examined. Vehicles will be checked for registration, insurance, and technical condition. For trucks, freight inspections will also be conducted, including checking the cargo, verifying correct freight documents, and ensuring compliance with transport regulations. For goods, authorities will search for prohibited items (contraband). Additionally, compliance with customs regulations will be monitored, and the security risks of the cargo will be assessed.

Border controls in other countries

Border controls in Germany: Earlier this year, Germany implemented border controls at its borders with Austria, Switzerland, Poland, and the Czech Republic to combat human smuggling and illegal immigration. Since September 2024, these controls have also been extended to the borders with the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, and Denmark.

Border controls in France: France has been implementing border controls for a longer period, particularly since the terrorist attacks in 2015. These checks aim to ensure national security and combat illegal immigration. Additionally, France has indicated that it will tighten controls during international crises.

What else will change in the coming years?

In addition to this temporary measure, other rules will come into effect in the coming years. For example, from August 2025, trucks and buses conducting international transport within the European Union will be required to use the Smart Tacho 2. In 2026, a truck toll will be introduced: a charge per kilometer driven on highways, some national roads, and certain municipal roads, which vehicle owners will be required to pay.