Albania’s logistics and passenger transport sectors are growing fast, especially with increased tourism and infrastructure development. For both local and foreign investors, setting up a transport company can be a profitable opportunity—if the legal steps are followed correctly.
Registering a transport business in Albania requires more than just forming a company. You also need to meet licensing, vehicle, and insurance requirements based on the type of transport service you plan to offer.
Step 1: Choose a Legal Structure
Most transport companies in Albania are registered as sh.p.k. (Limited Liability Company). This structure offers flexibility, legal protection, and is available to both Albanian and foreign citizens.
To register a sh.p.k., you must:
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Reserve the company name
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Draft and notarize the Articles of Association
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Appoint a legal representative (administrator)
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Provide a local business address
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Obtain a NIPT (Tax ID) from the National Business Center (QKB)
Company formation usually takes 3 to 5 business days once documents are complete.
Step 2: Define the Business Activity Code
When registering the company, you must choose the correct business activity code. Transport activities fall under specific NACE classifications, depending on whether the company will operate:
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Passenger transport (taxis, minibuses, buses)
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Freight and cargo logistics
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International transport
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Special vehicle services (e.g. school buses, tourism shuttles)
The chosen activity must match the licenses you plan to apply for.
Step 3: Obtain the Required Licenses
Transport companies in Albania must be licensed through the National Transport Authority (DPSHTRR). The license depends on your type of operation.
To apply, you must submit:
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Proof of company registration
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Vehicle ownership or lease documents
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Technical vehicle inspection certificates
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Proof of insurance (liability and passenger, if applicable)
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A clean criminal record for the legal representative
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Proof of financial capacity (bank statement or capital proof)
International transport operators also need an EU-compatible Community License, which has stricter conditions.
Step 4: Register and Certify Vehicles
Every vehicle used for commercial transport must be:
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Registered under the company’s name
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Insured for commercial activity
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Certified through a technical inspection center
Drivers must hold valid licenses for their vehicle class and meet all road safety requirements. For international freight or passenger services, additional documents such as tachograph cards or CMR transport permits may be required.
Step 5: Ongoing Compliance
Transport businesses in Albania are subject to routine inspections, annual license renewals, and vehicle re-certification. Non-compliance can result in fines or suspension of the transport license.
You must also:
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Keep accurate logs of vehicle activity
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Maintain staff and driver contracts
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File taxes and insurance contributions correctly
Working with a compliance partner or legal advisor is highly recommended to avoid administrative delays or legal issues.
Registering a transport company in Albania is straightforward but highly regulated. From forming the company to licensing every vehicle, the process must be handled step by step. Whether you’re launching a taxi fleet, cargo business, or bus company, legal compliance is key.