The truck toll is coming: your checklist for July 1st

The clock is ticking: the truck toll starts on July 1, 2026

It is no longer a plan for the future, but an operational reality that will have a direct impact on your transport costs in a few months: on July 1, 2026, the truck toll will be introduced in the Netherlands. From that day, every truck (both Dutch and foreign) with a maximum permitted mass of more than 3,500 kg will pay a levy per kilometer driven. This toll applies to almost all Dutch motorways and a number of N-roads. The focus is now shifting from 'knowing what is coming' to 'arranging what needs to be done'. With this definitive checklist, you can ask the right questions to your carriers and forwarders, and ensure you are ready for the start and not faced with surprises.

The facts at a glance: this is what is going to happen

The government has now finalized the details. This is what you need to know:

• What: A mandatory kilometer levy for trucks with a maximum permitted mass above 3,500 kg.
• When: The official start date is July 1, 2026.
• How: Every truck must be equipped with a certified on-board computer (On-Board Unit or OBU) that accurately registers the kilometers driven.
• The costs: The rate per kilometer is not the same for everyone. The levy is determined by three factors:

   1.  The number of kilometers driven.

   2.  The CO₂ emission class of the truck.

   3.  The weight class of the truck.

The principle is simple: the user and the polluter pay. A modern, cleaner truck pays significantly less per kilometer than an older, more polluting model.

The impact: what you can expect on your invoices in July

The most important question for you as an importer is: what does this mean for my budget? From July, you will see a new surcharge on your transport invoices. Keep in mind an indicative cost increase of 10% to 15% on your current transport costs. Most carriers will specify this as a separate item, comparable to the German Maut or a fuel surcharge.

This fundamentally changes the dynamics of transport costs. The efficiency and modernity of your carrier's fleet are no longer just a sustainability choice, but a direct cost item. A carrier with a fleet full of Euro 6 or zero-emission trucks will be able to pass on a significantly lower levy to you than a party with outdated equipment.

Your definitive checklist: 3 actions you must take now

The deadline is approaching fast. Do not take risks and go through the following three steps to ensure a smooth transition.

1. VERIFY the compliance of your carrier

The technical preparation lies with your transporter, but the consequences of negligence affect you directly. A carrier that has not equipped its fleet with the correct OBUs by July 1 risks fines and downtime, which directly disrupts your supply chain.

To remove this risk for you, Cargoplot has proactively contacted its transport partners to guarantee that they meet all requirements in time and can continue their journey unhindered.

• The question you ask now: "Have you confirmed that 100% of the fleet driving for us is equipped with a working and registered OBU for the Dutch truck toll?"
• The risk: Do not assume this is arranged. Ask for confirmation.

2. GET CLARITY on rates and invoicing

Vague agreements guaranteed lead to discussions afterwards and unexpected costs. Make sure you know exactly how your carrier will pass on the levy before July 1.

• The question you ask now: "How exactly are you going to calculate and specify the truck toll on the invoice? Can you send a sample calculation for one of our regular routes?"
• Cargoplot's indication: be prepared for an increase in transport costs between 10% and 15%. This way you keep a grip on your budget.
• The risk: Without clear agreements, you lose control over your transport budget.

3. OPTIMIZE your carrier network

This change is the moment to evaluate your current carriers and save costs. The rate differences between an old and a clean truck are significant. This is an opportunity to lower your costs by choosing more cleverly.

Tip from Cargoplot: At Cargoplot, we recommend considering multimodal transport. Think of barging with inland shipping, with various types of barges. Contact us for advice.

Where does the money actually go?

An important detail: the proceeds from the truck toll flow entirely back to the transport sector. This money is used for two purposes:

1. Reduction of the Motor Vehicle Tax (MRB): The fixed annual tax for trucks will decrease.
2. Investments in sustainability and innovation: Subsidies will become available for transport companies to invest in cleaner and smarter equipment, such as electric trucks.

The levy is therefore not just a tax, but also a mechanism to make the entire sector more sustainable.

Frequently asked questions about the truck toll

What exactly is the truck toll?

It is a kilometer-dependent tax for trucks with a maximum permitted mass of more than 3,500 kg that use Dutch motorways and various N-roads.

When does the truck toll take effect?

The official and final start date is July 1, 2026.

Do I as a shipper need to register my carriers?

No, the carrier (the owner of the truck) is fully responsible for the registration of its vehicles and the installation of the correct equipment (OBU). Your responsibility lies in choosing a carrier that has this in order.

Will my transport in the Netherlands become more expensive?

In most cases, yes. Although the proceeds are used to lower the fixed Motor Vehicle Tax (MRB) and subsidize sustainability, the new kilometer levy will not fully compensate for this for most transports. The final cost increase depends heavily on the efficiency of your carrier's trucks.

Are there exceptions?

Yes, certain vehicle categories are exempt from the levy. These include construction vehicles, agricultural and forestry vehicles, military vehicles, fire engines, classic cars, and exceptional transport. In addition, zero-emission vehicles (such as electric trucks) pay a significantly lower rate to encourage sustainable choices.