12/08/2026
In less than two months, another transport document will become mandatory in digital form. Starting October 5, only the electronic version of the Spanish transport document, the “Documento de Control,” will be accepted.
Still looking for the latest information on this topic? We’ve listed 8 questions and answers below so you can be prepared to comply with these new regulations.
1. Quick refresher: What is DeCA again?
DeCA stands for Documento electrónico de Control Administrativo. It is the digital version of the administrative control document (DCA) that must be present during transport in Spain
The document serves as proof for inspection services that the transport is correctly registered and contains all essential information about the shipment, the client, and the carrier. From October 2026, this document may no longer be drawn up on paper; it must be available digitally.
2. Is it acceptable if I take a photo or scan of the paper Documento de Control?
No. The document must be created digitally, contain a QR code and be immediately accessible to inspection authorities via a secure HTTPS link. A standard PDF or photograph does not meet these requirements.
3. I’m driving from Belgium to Spain: do I need a DeCA?
No, the requirement applies only to domestic road transport within Spain and cabotage transport.
DeCA is not mandatory for:
- some specific exceptions such as removal services or certain courier services;
- international transport;
- own-account transport (private complementary transport).
4. If I use a DeCA, do I still need a Carta de Porte?
DeCA does not replace a Carta de Porte. Please follow current Spanish regulations to ensure you have the correct transport documents with you during your journey.
You can, however, use a digital Carta de Porte that contains the required QR code for DeCA. This means you’re all set for both documents with a single digital document. You can use it in this way with Pionira.
5. If I use an eCMR, am I also compliant with DeCA?
No. The eCMR is for international transport, but does not therefore automatically cover all domestic requirements. However, you can use a solution where the required QR code for DeCA is included on your eCMR.
6. Will checks take longer?
During a roadside check, the driver does not need to perform any complicated actions.
He simply presents the QR code on the document. The inspector scans this code and receives immediate access to the digital version of the DeCA.
Nothing needs to be uploaded to a government platform, and companies do not need to register anywhere in advance.
7. As the principal, am I responsible for drawing up the DeCA?
Responsibility lies with both the contractual consignor (cargador contractual) and the actual carrier (transportista efectivo).
Both parties must ensure that the document is available during transport. If the document is missing, both can be held liable.
8. What if something changes during my journey?
If something changes along the way, such as a different vehicle or a changed destination?
Then this may not be manually adjusted on a printed version. The change must be made digitally:
- by officially amending the existing document, or
- by creating a completely new document.
The driver must then receive the updated version before the transport continues.
Have you found a partner for DeCA yet?
With Pionira, you’ll be prepared for the new requirements and have a single solution for multiple transport documents (Carta de Porte, Documento de Control), so you can continue to carry out transport operations in Spain with complete peace of mind. Are you crossing the Spanish border? Then you can carry on using our eCMR.
Further questions or interested in getting started?
