A New era of road pricing begins on 1 July 2026
From 1 July 2026, the Netherlands will introduce a nationwide truck toll, a kilometer‑based charge for all trucks over 3,500 kg. This toll replaces the Dutch Eurovignette and aligns the Netherlands with road‑pricing systems already used in countries like Germany, Belgium, and Denmark. Both Dutch and foreign trucks will pay per kilometer on almost all motorways and selected regional routes. Cleaner and lighter trucks receive lower tariff rates under the system.
For transport companies, the introduction of this toll marks a significant shift in operating costs and strategic planning. It reshapes route decisions, fleet investments, and the financial structure of long‑distance transport.
How the new toll is calculated
The truck toll is calculated using three core factors: the truck’s CO₂‑emission class (based on the EU’s VECTO system), its Euro‑emission class, and its technical maximum mass. Cleaner trucks benefit from lower rates, while older or heavier vehicles pay more.
Industry estimates show:
- Euro 6 combinations: €0.160–€0.201 per km
- Zero‑emission trucks: €0.035–€0.038 per km
This dramatically changes the financial landscape. A long‑haul diesel truck driving 80,000 toll‑eligible kilometers per year could pay up to €16,000 annually, while a zero‑emission truck pays closer to €3,000.
Where the toll applies
The toll applies to all major Dutch A‑roads and a wide selection of N‑roads. These routes represent the core corridors of national and international freight traffic. The official map and road list are maintained by the Dutch government and updated regularly.
For most companies, this means that the majority of their long‑haul freight will fall under the toll.
Major policy changes that come with the toll
The introduction of the truck toll comes with several related policy changes that directly affect operational costs.
First, the Eurovignette expires in the Netherlands on 1 July 2026. Second, the Dutch motor vehicle tax (MRB) will be significantly reduced: trucks up to 12 tons will no longer pay MRB, and heavier vehicles will pay the EU minimum. While this reduction softens the financial blow, it does not fully compensate for toll costs for most carriers.
Additionally, the Dutch toll integrates into the EETS system, allowing carriers to pay tolls across multiple countries using one contract and a single on‑board unit (OBU). All trucks operating on toll roads must install an approved OBU before 1 July 2026.
Government subsidies: A financial boost for clean transport
A major benefit linked to the new toll is the large reinvestment in sustainable logistics. In 2026, the Dutch government has allocated €253 million to support the purchase of electric and hydrogen trucks, charging infrastructure, and logistical innovations. This financial support directly offsets the cost of transitioning to zero‑emission fleets.
When combined with the lowest possible toll rate for zero‑emission vehicles, these subsidies make fleet modernization increasingly attractive — especially for companies looking to future‑proof their operations.
What the toll means for your transport operations
For many companies, the introduction of the toll will mean a cost increase of up to 10%, depending on route type, vehicle size, and emissions. Long‑haul and international carriers are most affected.
This shift makes route optimization more valuable than ever. Companies must examine their network to identify which routes fall under the toll, how many empty kilometers they run, and what fleet strategy delivers the best cost‑performance results. Fleet decisions such as switching to lighter combinations or investing in zero‑emission vehicles will have a substantial long‑term impact.
How Koring Freight Forwarders helps you minimize cost and maximize efficiency
This is where Koring Freight Forwarders becomes an essential partner. With more than 50 years of international logistics expertise, we help our customers navigate the new toll landscape with confidence, strategy, and measurable cost benefits.
Koring analyzes your routes to identify where toll costs can be reduced or avoided. By optimizing load factors, consolidating freight, and minimizing empty kilometers, we ensure every kilometer is used as efficiently as possible. Our planners evaluate the cost impact of different route options and choose the smartest path — not just the fastest.
Koring also invests in cleaner logistics solutions and keeps customers informed about how sustainability decisions affect future costs. We monitor subsidy opportunities, evolving regulations, and zero‑emission fleet developments so that our customers can benefit from lower toll rates and improved sustainability performance.
We provide transparent communication about cost changes, allowing you to make informed decisions and maintain trust with your own customers. Whether preparing for upcoming toll scenarios or evaluating the advantages of electric and hydrogen vehicles, Koring ensures your logistics remain stable, predictable, and competitive.
For more information, please contact sales@koring.nl
