Everything you need to know about the ferry/train function of the digital tachograph

How does the train/ferry function of the tachograph work? Read here how you can correctly use the ferry/train function to interrupt your daily rest twice without penalty during a ferry or train journey.

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In the transport industry, it may be necessary to cover distances by (ferry) boat or train. To avoid fines, you must use the ferry/train function of the tachograph. The emphasis is on an interruption of the mandatory daily rest of 11 or 3+9 hours in a bed or bunk. Weekly rest can also be taken on a ferry or train, provided the crossing lasts at least 8 hours and there is a sleep cabin available.

Ferry/train function

When your daily rest needs to be interrupted to board the (ferry) boat or train, set the tachograph to 'ferry/train'. Do this before the crossing and always before turning off the ignition. The tachograph will not register the interruption as rest time. Leaving the boat or train? Then do exactly the same.

Set the tachograph to 'ferry/train' before boarding the ferry. Once onboard, set the tachograph back to rest. The ferry/train function is automatically deactivated as soon as you start moving again, remove your driver card, or activate 'out of scope'. The two interruptions together must not last longer than 60 minutes.

Example ferry/train function

Suppose you arrive at the harbor and start your 11-hour daily rest. You may interrupt the rest twice: once to board the ferry and once to leave the ferry. This also applies to split daily rest.

Technical operation

The activation generates a marking that suppresses the GPS signal (only for smart tachograph). There is then no movement conflict. With a digital tachograph, the marking disappears from the display after more than 1 minute of driving, but is correctly recorded. With the smart tachograph, the marking remains visible during the crossing. Make sure the mode is off when you continue your work.

Ferry/train function for the smart tachograph

With the digital tachograph, you activate the function once (on when boarding, off when disembarking). With the smart tachograph, the function remains active until you deactivate it yourself. Don't forget to deactivate it before continuing on land!

Instructions Stoneridge SE 5000

Press 'Ok', arrow down once to 'Location', confirm with 'Ok'. Press arrow down again. At 'Train/ferry' press 'Ok'. Return to the main menu. The ferry symbol is visible.

Instructions VDO tachograph

Press 'Ok', arrow down three times to 'Vehicle Input', press 'Ok'. Arrow down once to 'Ferry/train', press 'Ok'. 'Input saved' appears. The ferry symbol is visible on the home screen.

Ferry/train function video

Watch our video: YouTube – Ferry/train function

Questions?

Do you have questions about the ferry/train function? Feel free to call or email us!

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