UK Haulier has all you need to know about the HGV Road User Levy in the UK. The UK HGV Road User Levy is a time-based charge of up to £1,000 a year or £10 a day and will apply to all vehicles weighing 12 tonnes or more, using the UK road network, starting April 2014.
Brief Overview
The Government has introduced a road user levy for heavy goods vehicles (HGV), 12 tonnes or more, aimed at ensuring these vehicles make a contribution to the wear and tear of the UK road network. This levy was introduced by the HGV Road User Levy Act 2013 and began on 1 April 2014.
What is the objective?
To make sure that operators from abroad are paying towards the cost of building and maintaining the UK’s roads as well as creating a level playing field for domestic operators.
Cost and payment
Levy amounts vary according to the vehicle’s weight, axle configuration and levy duration.
Have you paid?
Do you drive a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) weighing 12 tonnes or more? If so, from 1 April 2014, you’ll need to pay a levy to use UK roads – before you enter the country.
How much is the levy?
The charge for every HGV is between £1.70 and £10 a day (£85 and £1,000 per year), depending on the type of vehicle, number of axles, and weight. You can pay by the day – or save money by paying in advance by the week, month or year.
Whatever payment period you choose, the levy runs from midnight (00:00:00) to one second before midnight (23:59:59).
How do I pay?
It’s really easy to pay online using a debit or credit card. You can also pay online with some fuel cards. There will be a small number of HGV Levy payment points in some ferry terminals and a few fuel stations, where you can ‘Pay and Go’ using cash or card.
To make payment as quick and easy as possible, it will be possible to set up an account for the levy from 17 March 2014.
Who needs to pay the levy
The levy can be paid by you, your company, or a booking agent. However, it’s up to you to check your vehicle has a valid levy every time you come to the UK. You can do this quickly and easily online.
What happens if I don’t pay?
If you haven’t paid the full levy for your vehicle, automatic number-plate recognition cameras, ferry records and other checks will alert our enforcement agencies when you arrive in the UK. You’ll have to pay an on-the-spot fine of £300 at the roadside. If you can’t pay the fine, your vehicle will be impounded, which could seriously disrupt your delivery schedule and lead to further costs.
Disclaimer
This content gives general guidance only and should not be regarded as a complete or authoritative statement of the law. The guidance will be updated to reflect any developments in new legislation or case law. For more information please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/hgv-road-user-levy