Truck Tolling Systems: Types and How They Work

A truck tolling system is the method a country uses to charge lorries for using its roads, bridges and tunnels. Europe uses several models, which differ in how the charge is calculated and collected.

Main types of tolling system

• Free-flow: gantries and on-board units charge vehicles automatically at motorway speed, with no barriers.
• Open / closed systems: open systems charge a fixed amount per section, closed systems charge the exact distance driven between entry and exit.
• Vignette: a time-based pass (such as the Eurovignette) that allows road use for a fixed period rather than per kilometre.

How tolls are calculated

Charges usually depend on distance, the number of axles, weight class and the emission class of the vehicle. Because rates vary by country and road, dispatchers estimate them in advance with the IMPARGO toll calculator to price and plan routes accurately.