Introduction

From 1 January 2026, Poland will implement significant changes to the national e-TOLL road toll system, including higher rates for many vehicle categories.
These changes affect both domestic carriers and international operators transiting through Poland — especially vehicles above 3.5 tonnes.

Although e-TOLL already replaced viaTOLL in 2021, the new update introduces higher tolls, expanded charged segments, and environmental factors influencing final pricing.

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Why the Toll Increase?

According to the Ministry of Infrastructure, the updated toll structure is part of:

• aligning Polish toll rates with EU standards,
• funding road infrastructure modernization,
• encouraging environmentally cleaner fleets.

This means vehicles with lower emission classes will see higher cost increases.

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What Changes on 1 January 2026?

1. Higher base toll rates

The updated tariff increases the per-kilometre cost for:

• trucks,
• vans above 3.5 tonnes,
• buses,
• heavy goods vehicles and combinations.

The increase is expected to be 7%–25%, depending on category.

2. Environmental class matters more

Vehicles with lower Euro standards (Euro 2 / 3 / 4) will pay substantially more compared to Euro 6.

3. More sections of expressways and national roads will be tolled

This includes additional S-roads and selected national routes.

4. Expansion of the satellite-based enforcement

e-TOLL already works via GPS transmission — but inspection intensity is expected to rise.

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Who Is Affected Most?

• Carriers operating older fleets
• Long-distance operators crossing Poland frequently
• Just-in-time and express transport companies
• Operators with low-margin routes

While express vans under 3.5 tonnes are unaffected directly by e-TOLL, many clients will face increased transport prices due to higher cost levels across the market.

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How to Prepare?

1. Update pricing models early

Inform clients ahead of time — carriers that adjust rates too late risk reduced profitability.

2. Consider fleet upgrades

Euro 6 and electric/H2 vehicles may become more cost-effective.

3. Plan routes with toll zones in mind

Alternative routes may reduce cost but increase transit time — balance is key.

4. Use real-time telematics

Precise GPS ensures the correct calculation and reduces the risk of penalties.

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Conclusion

The 2026 e-TOLL update is a major shift in Poland’s road charging system.
Businesses relying on frequent transport through Poland should prepare now to control costs and avoid unpleasant surprises.

At Spedition X, we continuously monitor regulatory changes and adjust our operations to deliver the fastest and most predictable time-critical solutions across Europe.