Dutch zero-emission zones are already operating, but the most important transition deadlines for hauliers fall between 2027 and 2030. Zero-emission vehicles can enter, while certain vans and Euro 6 trucks registered before 2025 receive temporary access. Eligibility depends on vehicle type, emission class and date of first registration.

What changes in 2027?

The transition period for Euro 5 commercial vans ends on 1 January 2027. They will generally lose access to ZE zones unless an exemption or individual dispensation applies.

Under the rules currently in force, Euro 6 vans have access until 1 January 2028. The Dutch government intends to extend this by one year to 1 January 2029, but the official portal states that the extension is not final until the traffic regulations are amended. Dispatchers must verify the legal status rather than plan around the proposal.

Truck deadlines in 2028 and 2030

Euro 6 rigid trucks first registered from 1 January 2017 through 31 December 2019 retain access until 1 January 2028. Euro 6 rigid trucks first registered in 2020–2024 retain transitional access until 1 January 2030.

Euro 6 tractor units first registered in 2017–2024 also retain access until 1 January 2030. New commercial trucks and vans first registered from 2025 generally need zero-emission propulsion to enter, subject to defined special-vehicle exceptions.

What should a foreign haulier do?

The system also applies to foreign vehicles. Before delivery, check the municipality, zone boundary, vehicle category, emission class, first-registration date and any foreign-plate registration procedure. Euro 6 alone is not enough: a 2019 rigid and a 2021 tractor unit have different deadlines.

Operational checklist

Record the first-registration date; distinguish van, rigid and tractor unit; run the official number-plate check; validate an exemption before booking the delivery slot; include transhipment or alternative-vehicle costs in the rate.

Official sources

  • [Op weg naar ZES: access rules](https://opwegnaarzes.nl/bedrijven/toegangsregels)
  • [Information for foreign vehicles](https://opwegnaarzes.nl/bedrijven/buitenlandse-voertuigen)

Information checked on 9 September 2026. Because the Euro 6 van extension still needs a formal amendment, verify the current rule before travel.