CHANGES AFFECTING ROAD TRANSPORT FROM 1 JULY 2026
A number of important regulatory changes entered into force on 1 July 2026, affecting road freight transport in EU countries. One of the most significant developments is the introduction of the Dutch Heavy Goods Vehicle Charge. After several years of preparation, heavy-duty vehicles are now charged on a per-kilometre basis when using most major roads in the Netherlands. The applicable tariff depends on the vehicle's CO₂ emission class, with cleaner vehicles benefiting from lower rates. The system relies on onboard units (OBUs) and roadside enforcement cameras. From 1 July, operators must have a valid contract with a toll service provider and an activated onboard unit when driving on tolled roads. More information is available on the Dutch truck toll website Truck toll in the Netherlands | Trucktoll.
In Belgium, the kilometre charging system has also been updated. From 1 July, Flanders applies a new CO₂ component to its kilometre charge, increasing the toll for higher-emitting vehicles. Toll rates have also been adjusted in Wallonia and the Brussels-Capital Region. Updated tariffs are available via Viapass: https://www.viapass.be.
Transport operators refuelling in Germany should also note that the temporary reduction in diesel excise duty has expired. Fuel taxes have returned to their previous level, resulting in higher diesel prices from 1 July.
Another important milestone concerns the extension of the tachograph rules to light commercial vehicles engaged in international road transport. Vans and vehicle combinations with a maximum authorised mass exceeding 2.5 tonnes operating internationally or performing cabotage must now be equipped with a Smart Tachograph Version 2. Drivers become subject to the EU driving and rest time rules, while transport operators must download and retain tachograph data in accordance with existing requirements. Further information can be found on the European Commission's Mobility Package webpage: https://transport.ec.europa.eu/transport-modes/road/social-provisions/mobility-package_en.