European tolls and distance-based charges
Most European Union countries have established toll systems for trucks, often using toll boxes, tags, barriers, or vignettes. Prominent examples include the Belgian kilometer charge, the German Maut, and the upcoming truck toll in the Netherlands.
1. Belgian Kilometer Charge
Since April 2016, Belgium has levied a kilometer charge for trucks weighing over 3.5 tonnes in the Wollonia, Flanders and Brussels regions. This charge is based on the distance traveled on specific roads and varies depending on the type of road and the vehicle's emission class. The system requires transporters to carefully plan and calculate their costs to avoid unexpected expenses.
2. German Maut
Germany introduced the Maut in 2005, a distance-based charge for trucks weighing 3.5 tons or more. This charge applies to all highways and many major roads (Bundesstraßen), with rates depending on the distance, weight, and emission class of the vehicle.
3. French Péage
France operates an extensive toll road network known as "péages," which is widely used by trucks. The toll costs in France are calculated based on the distance traveled, the number of axles, the vehicle type, and its emission class. As a major transit country in Europe, France's toll system plays a crucial role in international logistics, requiring transport companies to factor in these costs when planning routes through or within France.
4. Dutch Truck Toll (2026 Onwards)
Starting in 2026, the Netherlands will implement a kilometer-based toll for trucks weighing over 3.5 tons. Trucks will be charged approximately fifteen cents per kilometer for using the road network, including local and regional roads. This new charge will replace the current Eurovignette tax and reduce the motor vehicle tax for trucks to the European minimum. The revenue generated will be reinvested in the sustainability and innovation of the transport sector, such as deploying electric trucks and renewable fuels.