European Road Transport Changes from July 2026

Several important regulatory changes will come into effect across Europe from 1 July 2026, introducing new road charging models and compliance requirements that may influence transport costs, operational planning and capacity across the European road freight market.

The changes form part of Europe’s wider efforts to improve infrastructure funding, reduce transport emissions and strengthen regulatory compliance within the road transport sector.

Netherlands introduces distance-based truck toll

The Netherlands will replace the existing Eurovignette system with a new distance-based truck toll for vehicles over 3.5 tonnes.

Under the new system:

• Charges will be calculated based on the number of kilometres driven on the Dutch road network.
• Vehicles over 3.5 tonnes will require a compliant On-Board Unit (OBU) to record journeys.
• Transport movements involving the Netherlands may experience higher operating costs depending on route distance.

Belgium updates Viapass road charging system

The changes include:

• Revised toll rates across the network.

• A new CO₂-based charging element in the Flanders region.
• Greater emphasis on vehicle emissions performance when calculating toll charges.

This reflects the wider European move towards environmentally focused road charging, encouraging the use of lower-emission vehicles while increasing operating costs for less environmentally efficient fleets.

New tachograph requirements for international vans

One of the most significant regulatory changes affects light commercial vehicles operating internationally.

From 1 July 2026, vans between 2.5 and 3.5 tonnes engaged in:

• International transport, or
• Cabotage operations

will be required to:

• Be fitted with smart tachographs.
• Comply with EU drivers’ hours regulations.
• Follow mandatory rest period regulations.

This extension of the EU Mobility Package introduces new compliance requirements for operators that have previously been outside these regulations.

We continue to monitor global port performance and carrier developments to help businesses navigate changing market conditions with confidence. For tailored advice on how these developments may affect your supply chain, please contact your local NNR team.

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