6 misunderstandings about the truck toll (and the facts behind them)
The truck toll starts in the Netherlands on 1 July 2026. Many companies are ready to go and already have their onboard unit. The RDW has nevertheless noted that there are still questions about the introduction of the truck toll scheme and its rules. That is why the RDW has compiled a list of the most common misunderstandings about the truck toll, along with an explanation of what's really what.
Misunderstanding 1: "We don't have any trucks, so this doesn't affect us"
The truck toll applies to all vehicles in categories N2 and N3. These have a technically permissible maximum mass of more than 3,500 kg. This also includes smaller trucks that can sometimes look like large delivery vans and that you can drive with a category B driving licence.
Companies that are unsure whether a vehicle falls under this category can check this using the registration certificate or the licence plate check on www.rdw.nl. Is 'N2' or 'N3' noted next to the letter J (vehicle category)? If so, the vehicle is a truck. Make sure you get an onboard unit as soon as possible.
Companies that do not have their own trucks may also have to deal with the toll. For example, because carriers are changing their transport rates. It is therefore advisable to discuss this with carriers and other partners in the supply chain regarding this matter in good time.
Misunderstanding 2: "I do not have a transport company, so the truck toll doesn't apply to me"
The truck toll applies to all vehicles in categories N2 and N3. It does not matter how and for what the vehicle is used. The truck toll not only covers trucks belonging to transport companies, but also vehicles such as mobile cranes, horseboxes and mobile sales vehicles that are in vehicle categories N2 and N3. Nor does it matter whether a truck is used in a private or business capacity, what the vehicle is being used for or whether the vehicle is full or empty.
Misunderstanding 3: "I can arrange the onboard unit at the last minute"
This is not recommended. Companies have been able to obtain an onboard unit from service providers and fuel card suppliers for several months now. The providers all have their own conditions and delivery times, so that it is wise to determine what best suits your company's situation. Waiting to arrange an onboard unit may mean that you can no longer obtain an onboard unit from your preferred provider. It is best to take care of this now. Trucks are not allowed on the road without a functioning onboard unit. After 1 July, a company risks a fine.
Misunderstanding 4: "I'm already using an onboard unit, so I'm good"
An existing onboard unit that is used abroad at present is not automatically suitable for the truck toll in the Netherlands. Not all onboard units work in all countries and not every contract is automatically valid for use in the Netherlands. That is why it is important to check with your current provider:
- whether the current onboard unit is suitable for the Netherlands,
- and whether the contract needs to be extended to cover the Netherlands.
What if your onboard unit is not suitable for the Netherlands? Make sure you get an onboard unit that will work in the Netherlands.
Misunderstanding 5: "My colleague will take care of it"
Some companies know that the truck toll is coming, but have not properly decided who is responsible for arranging the onboard unit. The application for an onboard unit might end up slipping through the cracks. This particularly applies to companies for which transport is not the primary activity. Do not just assume someone else will arrange it, take action.
Misunderstanding 6: "Enforcement will start later on"
No. Enforcement starts immediately on 1 July. As of that date a company is at risk of a fine if a truck is driving without a working onboard unit. This applies to both Dutch and foreign trucks. The fine will, however, be half the normal amount of the fine for the first half year. The fine for driving without a contract with a toll service provider will be 400 euros instead of 800 euros. Driving with an onboard unit that is switched off, does not work properly or is linked to another truck will cost 250 euros instead of 500 euros.
Campaign
To properly prepare companies and drivers, the RDW will have information points at four rest areas in the Netherlands in June. These activities are part of a comprehensive campaign that has been going on in the Netherlands and abroad for quite some time. Starting on 8 June, these information points will be available for four days for truck drivers and transport companies who have questions about the truck toll, the onboard unit and preparations for 1 July.