Rijkswaterstaat has banned lorries and coaches from the A27 Merwede Bridge between Gorinchem and Sleeuwijk in the Netherlands. The restriction has applied since 18 July 2026 after investigations found weaknesses in steel used in parts of the bridge’s arch structure.
Which vehicles are affected?
Lorries and coaches may not cross the Merwede Bridge. Regular scheduled buses are exempt. For hauliers, this means the A27 bridge route must not be used even if a navigation system still proposes it.
This is not a weekend driving restriction. It remains active continuously until the Dutch authorities announce a change.
Official HGV diversion routes
Rijkswaterstaat identifies two principal diversions for freight traffic:
- A15–A16–A59;
- A15–A2–A59.
Vehicles carrying dangerous goods must use the route via the A2. An ADR operator should not select the A16 option simply because a navigation app shows a shorter ETA.
Official signs and road-authority instructions take priority over navigation software. Dispatchers should update the route before departure and tell the driver clearly which diversion applies.
Why was the ban introduced?
Investigations indicated that steel in parts of the bridge arch was weaker than previously assumed. The measure reduces heavy loading and keeps the bridge available to lighter traffic while further assessments continue.
It is a safety restriction, not an advisory notice. Rijkswaterstaat and police enforce it through cameras and roadside controls.
What does the diversion cost?
The operational effect depends on the origin, destination, congestion and cargo. A carrier should include:
- additional kilometres;
- additional fuel;
- driver working and driving time;
- possible toll exposure;
- delivery-window and next-load risk.
A customer price should be checked against the complete vehicle route, not loaded kilometres alone. If the diversion changes the load margin, this should be known before accepting or repricing the job.
Haulier checklist
- Remove the Merwede Bridge from the planned HGV route.
- Use the official A2 diversion for dangerous goods.
- Recalculate ETA and remaining driver hours.
- Inform the customer if the delivery window or price changes.
- Check the latest Rijkswaterstaat notice before departure.
Frequently asked questions
Is the truck ban active 24 hours a day?
Yes. It is a continuous bridge restriction, not only a Sunday or night ban.
Can an ADR vehicle cross the bridge?
No. Dangerous-goods vehicles must follow the official diversion via the A2.
Where is the official notice?
Read the [Rijkswaterstaat notice on the Merwede Bridge restriction](https://www.rijkswaterstaat.nl/en/news/archive/2026/08/temporary-ban-on-lorries-and-coaches-on-the-merwede-bridge-a27).
Information checked on 9 September 2026. Always verify the road operator’s latest notice before departure.