Tariffs for inland road transport 2021: the expectations

The effects of the Coronavirus crisis are having a significant impact on the cost developments related to road transport. These might include a rise in sick leave and a fall in traffic congestion, causing the costs to either rise or fall considerably. No-one knows for sure how the Coronavirus situation will develop in 2021, making it more difficult than ever to make predictions.

The report by Panteia, TLN and evofenedex outlines the predictions for the year to come. It takes into account the various factors that may influence the cost developments. The 2020 tariffs are inspected to increase as follows in 2021:

The expected 5% rise in fuel prices is not included in the figures above, as this price depends at all times on the market situation and is therefore very unpredictable. For this reason, most transport operators work with a fuel clause, as do our long-term partners. This so-called diesel surcharge is charged to you at cost price and reviewed monthly.

The further progress of the Coronavirus crisis will determine the actual cost developments for road transport in 2021. Several influential factors are at play here, that could result in (considerably) higher or lower actual costs in the end.

First of all, the factors that result in an increase in the cost of road transport. Wage costs are the main factor. In 2020, employers and employees jointly decided not to implement the planned increase as per the collective labour agreement (CAO), due to the uncertain economic situation. This increase, estimated at 1.5%, might still take place in 2021. What’s more, a rise in sick leave, the limitations arising from social distancing measures and lower load factor all cause costs to go up.

Several factors are also lowering costs. The biggest contributor is reduced traffic congestion, allowing employees and vehicles to be used efficiently. As a result, the drivers are working less overtime, which in turn lowers costs. Finally, the relaxation of driving times and rest periods to make sure supermarkets are stocked properly has also had a cost-saving effect.

It is likely that the tariff increases for 2021 will remain in line with the predictions above. Negotiations with our road transporters will take place at the end of this year, and we will inform you about the outcome of these discussions soon.