Belgian charges for CO2 emissions will lead to higher freight prices
The Belgian region of Flanders has introduced a co₂ surcharge to its mileage-based toll system since July 1, which has increased the fare by about 40%, according to Belmetal, the Belgian federation representing the interests of steel and metal distributors.
Previously, the mileage charge was calculated based on the maximum permissible vehicle weight, its European emission standard and the region in which it travels.
For a typical Euro VI articulated truck with a load capacity of more than 32 tons, which in most cases belongs to the CO₂ 1 class, the Flemish tariff is now 0.285 euros/km (0.33 USD). The previous tariff was 0.204 euros/km, so the actual increase will be about 0.081 euros/km, or about 40%, Belmetal DIRECTOR Chetan Korten told Callanish. This increases transportation costs by about 8 euros per 100 km journey.
Although transport operators pay for travel directly, the costs are usually covered by higher transportation tariffs or special surcharges.
"Thus, the final costs fall on the one who signs the transportation contract," says Korten. "Depending on the agreed terms of delivery, it can be a factory, distributor, or end user."
He notes that this measure will increase the cost of steel delivery.
Belgium already has separate mileage charging systems in place in Flanders, Brussels and Wallonia. The new Co₂-based component applies only to Flanders.
Brussels indexed its tariffs, while Wallonia adjusted its tariffs. Belmetal says the changes indicate a growing discrepancy in how Belgium's three regions manage road tolls.
Author: Christian Kehl, Germany
Kallanish.com