Heavy Vehicle Charge
Why are heavy vehicle charges levied?
For foreign motor vehicles with a weight of over 3.5 t gross vehicle weight, the Heavy Vehicle Charge applies. In this case, the vignette requirement does not apply. The Heavy Vehicle Charge is divided into two forms: the Flat-rate Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA) and the Performance-related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA). Both forms are therefore subject to the toll requirement. The collection of the Heavy Vehicle Charges (PSVA and LSVA) serves to finance the maintenance of the road network. In particular, the LSVA can offset uncovered infrastructure costs as well as external transport costs, for example those caused by environmental damage.
Flat-rate Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA)
Who has to pay the PSVA?
The Flat-rate Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA) applies to the entire road network of Switzerland and not exclusively to motorways. It must therefore also be paid if only country roads are used. The PSVA represents a fixed amount and is independent of the distance actually driven. It applies in particular to the following types of vehicles:
Heavy passenger cars
Heavy motor caravans (motorhomes/campers) as well as caravans
Vehicles for passenger transport
Tractors and motorised handcarts
Motor vehicles of showmen and circuses
Other motor vehicles for the transport of goods with a maximum speed of no more than 45 km/h
If a trailer is towed that is subject to the Heavy Vehicle Charge (weight over 3.5 t), while the towing vehicle itself is not subject to the charge (e.g. passenger cars under 3.5 t), the trailer load is considered subject to the charge. In this case, the PSVA applies exclusively to the trailer load. Exempt from the PSVA are, among others, scheduled service buses, provided they are used exclusively in approved scheduled service operations.
Payment of the Flat-rate Heavy Vehicle Charge (PSVA)
The PSVA must be paid online before entering the country via the Via portal of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS). The Via portal enables payment of the PSVA for foreign vehicles without a Swiss registration plate. Registration is not mandatory, as the payment receipt is sent by e-mail. However, voluntary registration can offer advantages, as paid tickets are stored centrally and can be retrieved at any time. Payment is made by credit card.
Performance-related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA)
Who has to pay the LSVA?
The Performance-related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA) is calculated based on the total weight of the vehicle, the emission class, and the kilometres travelled in Switzerland, and also applies in the Principality of Liechtenstein. A recording device (EETS or NETS) is required for registration. The LSVA must be paid by all motor vehicles and trailers used for the transport of goods that meet the following requirements:
Permissible total weight of more than 3.5 t
Use for the transport of goods
Registration in Switzerland or abroad as well as use of the public road network
Certain vehicles are exempt from the LSVA. These include, among others:
Vehicles for officially approved passenger transport, such as buses
Agricultural vehicles with green control plates
Work machines and work carts, including trailers and semi-trailers
Ambulance vehicles
Payment of the Performance-related Heavy Vehicle Charge (LSVA)
The LSVA is automatically recorded with the help of a recording device. The use of the service provider EETS is recommended, as it will remain available beyond 2025 and is part of the new LSVA III system. Alternatively, a recording device from NETS can also be used.
European Electronic Toll Service (EETS)
The European Electronic Toll Service (EETS) simplifies toll billing for the use of toll roads within the European Union. Vehicle owners sign a contract with an EETS provider, receive an on-board unit, and get a centralised billing of the LSVA. Foreign transport companies must conclude a contract with an EETS provider approved by the FOCBS for this purpose. These include, among others:
Telepass S.p.A.
Toll4Europe GmbH
Axxés SAS
National Electronic Toll Service (NETS)
The National Electronic Toll Service (NETS) enables the recording of the LSVA exclusively within Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. Unlike EETS, NETS cannot be combined with toll collection in other countries. It is provided free of charge by NATRAS AG on behalf of the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS). From 01.06.2025, the service will also be available to owners of vehicles registered abroad. Further information is available on the official website of the Swiss Confederation.
New recording system for the LSVA from the end of 2025
The existing LSVA II recording system will be replaced by the new LSVA III system by the end of 2025. This system is based on established standard solutions, which will continue to be offered by private service providers. Vehicle owners will continue to be able to use the following services in the future:
NETS (National Electronic Toll Service)
EETS (European Electronic Toll Service)
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey
We wish you a pleasant journey to Switzerland and much enjoyment on your exploration tour through the country's impressive natural scenery. Please inform yourself in good time about the applicable toll regulations. In addition, our route planner is available to help you plan your journey optimally and display the corresponding toll products. If you have any questions, we will of course be happy to assist you. Feel free to contact us at any time by e-mail.
