Failure to register in DIWASS – what are the penalties for the carrier?

Lack of registration in DIWASS poses a serious problem. As of 21 May 2026, this system has become a mandatory element for handling parts of transboundary waste shipments. So what are the real risks for a carrier who is not in the system? What must they prepare for?

Must the carrier be registered in DIWASS?

Definitely yes, if they are involved in transfrontier shipments of waste subject to the requirement to use DIWASS. The carrier's data must be in the system so that they can be indicated in the transport documentation.

This is of particular importance for shipments carried out under the procedure of prior written notification and consent, i.e. so-called notification. The obligation to use DIWASS in this procedure applies from 21 May 2026.

And what happens if the carrier is not in DIWASS?

A problem may arise even before departure. If the carrier is not available in the system, they cannot be correctly indicated as a participant in the movement.

As a result, the client can choose another company that has an active registration. Failure to register in DIWASS therefore becomes not only a formal issue, but also a business one.

Another issue is the problem with border crossings. An increasing number of EU countries are paying attention to whether a company has an account on the DIWASS platform. They make the decision on whether or not to let a given vehicle into the country dependent on its presence in the system.

Can an inspection stop transport?

Yes. Regulation (EU) 2024/1157 allows inspection authorities to check documents and the identity of entities involved in transport. The inspection may take place, inter alia, at the border or during transport.

If the authority does not receive the required proof of registration, it may detain the waste or the means of transport and suspend the transport until the matter is clarified.

What is the fine for failing to register in DIWASS?

There is no single EU-wide rate. Regulation 2024/1157 obliges member states to establish their own penalties. These may include financial fines and, in certain cases, also the suspension or revocation of authorisations related to waste management and shipments.

The fact that individual countries have not yet published official tariff schedules or regulations detailing the violations associated with the DIWASS system does not mean that no sanctions exist.

Does the lack of DIWASS mean illegal waste transport?

Yes, in addition, the lack of required documentation or the inability to demonstrate the regularity of the movement can lead to much more serious consequences than a mere formal omission.

Therefore, the carrier should not treat registration as an extra that can be done „on the side”.

And what about shipments based on Annex VII?

A valid exemption still applies here. Until 31 December 2026, the Chief Inspectorate for Environmental Protection (GIOŚ) permits the use of the paper Annex VII outside DIWASS in Poland. The mere failure to enter the document into the system will not, during this period, be grounds for considering the shipment illegal, provided the required paper documents are in order.

However, the transitional period does not cover shipments carried out under the notification procedure.