24/09/2026
The introduction of the digital DeCA (Documento de Control Administrativo) raises many questions within the transport and logistics sector. During our recent webinars on DeCA, we received many similar questions from hauliers, shippers, and logistics service providers active in Spain.
Based on those questions, we have compiled the most common misconceptions in this article. This way, you will know exactly what DeCA entails, what the obligations are, and how to easily remain compliant without unnecessary administrative burdens.
Misconception 1: DeCA is mandatory for all transport to and from Spain
This is perhaps the most common misconception.
The DeCA obligation applies exclusively to national road transport within Spain. This means that both the loading and unloading locations must be on Spanish territory.
For international transport, existing transport documents remain applicable.
Important: the fact that a truck enters or leaves Spain does not automatically mean that a DeCA is required.
Misconception 2: Transport companies must register with the Spanish government
Many companies assume they need to sign up on a government platform or go through a specific registration procedure. This is not the case.
To use a digital DeCA, no separate registration with the Spanish authorities is required. The document must, however, be available digitally, accessible via a secure link, and verifiable via a QR code.
As a result, companies can integrate the solution into their existing processes without additional administrative obligations.
Misconception 3: Only the haulier may create a DeCA
The regulations do not specify who is responsible for drafting the DeCA. Depending on the agreements within the transport chain, this can be done by:
- the haulier;
- the client;
- the shipper;
- or another involved party.
The choice therefore lies with the companies involved.
What the legislation is clear about, however, is that the haulier must ensure that the driver has access to the DeCA and the associated QR code during transport. During a roadside check, that QR code must be immediately presentable to the inspection services.
Misconception 4: Drivers must still carry paper documents
A key objective of DeCA is precisely the further digitalisation of transport documents. Drivers do not necessarily need to have a paper document on board, as long as they have access during a check to:
- the digital DeCA;
- the secure link to the document;
- the associated QR code.
Via that QR code, the Spanish authorities can consult the document immediately. This enables a completely paperless way of working and aligns with the broader digitalisation within the transport sector.
How do you prepare for DeCA?
Although many questions remain regarding the new regulations, practice shows that implementation is often simpler than companies expect.
The main points of attention are:
- knowing when DeCA applies;
- determining which party creates the document;
- ensuring that drivers have access to the QR code;
- and choosing a solution that aligns with your existing work processes.
By providing the right digital tools and integrations in time, you can comply with the regulations without adding extra complexity to your operational processes.
The possibilities within eWastra
Within eWastra, we provide three different solutions to easily create a DeCA:
- Upload an existing DCA as a PDF and have it converted into a compliant digital DeCA.
- Enter the transport data digitally via eWastra and let our platform generate the DeCA automatically.
- Create a digital Carta de Porte, where the associated DeCA is automatically generated as part of a fully paperless workflow.
Are you already a customer? Then contact our support (support@pionira.be) to add DeCA to your documents.
Not a customer yet? Request a non-binding quote via info@pionira.be to get started digitally.
Watch our webinars on DeCA again
Do you want to go deeper into the regulations, the practical application, and the different ways to create DeCA documents? You can rewatch our webinar here 👇
Do you have any questions about DeCA or our solution after watching the webinar? Feel free to contact our team. We are happy to help you.
