DOCTAG Knowledge
Spain DeCA 2026
From October 5, 2026, digital DeCA becomes mandatory for domestic road transport in Spain. DOCTAG is prepared with a clear PDF-first strategy.
Key takeaway: DeCA is an administrative control document. Signatures are not mandatory for basic DeCA validity, but relevant transport changes must be reflected in the electronic document.
What DeCA actually requires
- A digital DeCA created before departure with all mandatory statutory fields.
- Electronic updates when relevant data changes (e.g. vehicle, destination, cargo amount).
- Handwritten corrections on paper are not sufficient for that required update.
How DOCTAG makes this practical
- You can keep working with your existing PDF documents: no EDI project, no new interfaces, fast start.
- For inspections, provide the document as a PDF with a direct link and QR code.
- The separate PDF URL enables immediate retrieval without replacing the regular interactive document view.
- In a control scenario, the inspecting authority can open the provided document immediately via link or QR code and verify the current status on the spot.
- Optional extension from pure DeCA to full eCMR / proof-of-delivery workflows with electronic signatures.
Update ยท June 5, 2026: requirements simplified
- The resolution BOE-A-2026-12784 of June 5, 2026 replaces the 2023 rules. The document server internet address can be used without prior MITMA registration or notification.
- A natively generated PDF is required, not a scan. For PDFs created or edited by DOCTAG, creation and modification times are set as PDF metadata. The user is responsible for ensuring the 5 MB limit.
- For internally generated DOCTAG documents, the QR code can be configured globally or at upload to use either the interactive view or direct PDF URL. For a DeCA, the user selects the unique HTTPS PDF URL (TLS 1.2 or later).
- The direct PDF URL delivers the PDF without login, session, redirect, intermediate page, or other interaction. The address contains an unguessable document ID; anyone knowing this address can retrieve the document.
- DOCTAG does not manage DeCA-specific deadlines or archiving. The user ensures that the PDF URL remains available during transport and for at least seven calendar days afterwards, and retains the PDF for at least one year.
Turn compliance into an advantage
Beyond regulatory compliance, you can run one shared digital process across shipper, carrier, and consignee on the same document baseline.
Frequently asked questions about DeCA with DOCTAG
Do I need a TMS interface or an EDI project for DeCA?
No. DOCTAG accepts transport documents through the mail connection: you send the finished consignment note as a PDF attachment to a DOCTAG mail address, and DOCTAG turns it into the digitally provided document with QR code and direct PDF URL. No API integration and no development work are required.
Does DOCTAG work with my existing transport software?
Yes. DOCTAG is software-independent. Any application that can produce a PDF and send it by email can be used, which covers virtually every TMS, ERP, warehouse management or invoicing system. Your existing system stays unchanged and does not need to be replaced or rebuilt.
Does the driver need an app or a user account?
No. Neither the driver nor the recipient needs an app installation or registration. The document opens via link or QR code, and electronic signing happens directly in the browser on a smartphone or tablet.
What does the Spanish enforcement authority see during a roadside check?
The inspecting officer scans the QR code and receives the PDF file directly over HTTPS without login, session, redirect or intermediate page. It shows the current document state including any updates made during transport.
Does DOCTAG cover eCMR in addition to DeCA?
Yes. The same PDF-based process can be extended from pure DeCA to a full eCMR and proof-of-delivery workflow, including electronic signatures from shipper, carrier and consignee plus a traceable document history.
Regulatory source: BOE-A-2026-12784: resolution dated June 5, 2026 (replacing the 2023 resolution).
Related links
Note: This article is not legal advice. The 2026 resolution does not require MITMA domain registration. The user remains responsible for releasing a document as DeCA, the 5 MB limit, and organizational control processes.