Toll Revolution in the Netherlands: Distance-Based Charging for Trucks Kicks Off on July 1st

In line with the European Eurovignette directive amended in 2022 – and following the example of nations like Austria – the Netherlands is also preparing to radically overhaul its taxation system for heavy goods transport. Starting July 1st, 2026, the old method will give way to a payment system linked to the actual kilometers driven.

Who is Affected?

The measure does not spare foreign operators and applies to:

• Vehicle categories: All heavy goods vehicles belonging to classes N2 and N3.

• Weight threshold: Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight exceeding 3.5 tonnes.

• Routes involved: Virtually the entire Dutch motorway network, in addition to several provincial roads and local hubs with high commercial traffic density.

How Monitoring and Penalties Work

To comply with the law, transport operators must install a specific on-board unit (OBU). Compliance during transit will be monitored through a dual system:

• Fixed network: 61 electronic road gantries will read license plates and verify the device's activity.

• Mobile network: Traffic police control units will carry out random spot-checks directly on the road.

Warning regarding fines: The financial risks for non-compliance are high. Failing to secure a contract with a service provider carries fines of up to €800. Meanwhile, penalties can reach up to €500 if the OBU is turned off, faulty, or linked to a different license plate.

How Much Do You Pay? (In brief)

The rate varies based on the truck's weight and emission levels: the lighter and cleaner the vehicle, the less you pay. Electric trucks receive a massive discount compared to diesel ones (Euro VI).

Here is a very simple estimate of the costs per kilometer:

• Medium truck (16 tonnes):

  • Diesel: approx. 15.6 cents

  • Electric: approx. 3.4 cents

• Large truck (over 32 tonnes):

  • Diesel: approx. 19.5 cents

  • Electric: approx. 3.8 cents