Netherlands launches truck mileage tax on highways

From 1 July 2026 the Dutch government introduced a kilometre‑based truck tax (vrachtwagenheffing) for vehicles of 3 500 kg and above. The system uses an on‑board unit (OBU) linked to a toll‑service contract; drivers are charged per kilometre, with lower rates for lighter and cleaner trucks. The tax replaces the Eurovignet and the vehicle tax for trucks up to 12 000 kg, and a temporary 22.3 % discount applies until the end of 2026 to offset higher fuel costs.

The Netherlands’ Road Authority (RDW) monitors compliance with fixed and mobile cameras that scan licence plates and verify the OBU’s registration. Fines start at €800 (reduced to €400 during the first six months) for missing contracts and €500 (reduced to €250) for non‑functional units. Revenue from the tax will be funneled back into the sector through subsidies for electric trucks, charging infrastructure and efficiency measures.

Industry representatives warn that the new fee adds roughly 20 cents per kilometre, translating into a 7–8 % rise in transport costs that will be passed on to customers. Companies such as AB Texel and Vogel Transport stress the need for larger networks and grid capacity before a full shift to electric trucks becomes viable.