Germany has further expanded the road network for Long Heavy Vehicles (LHVs). As of Jan. 31, 2025, 450 new routes have been added, again growing the total number of approved LHV routes. The expansion focuses mainly on connecting routes to Autohofen, logistics centers and terminals on the underlying road network.

Since the nationwide introduction of LHVs in Germany on Jan. 1, 2017, following a five-year testing period, the network continues to grow steadily. The routes on which these vehicles are allowed to operate are defined in the specific LHV legislation, with each new expansion being officially published.

A larger network, but no higher weight limit

The Positivnetz, the official list of roads where LHVs are allowed to drive, now includes almost all highways in Germany up to border crossings with the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Austria, the Czech Republic and Denmark. Important secondary routes are also included, giving transport companies more flexibility in planning more efficient trips.

With the 13th legislative amendment, the LHV network has grown by 10%. The highways themselves have expanded by 10 kilometers to nearly 13,000 kilometers, but the biggest addition is in the 420 kilometers of access roads to logistics hubs and terminals.

Despite these extensions, the technical conditions for LHVs in Germany remain unchanged. The German government has rejected attempts to increase the maximum weight or to transport ADR (hazardous materials) goods. As a result, the maximum weight for LHVs remains 40 tons, with an exception of up to 44 tons for intermodal transport.

Cross-border LHV transport remains limited

For international transport, the restrictions remain largely the same. Cross-border driving with LHVs is only allowed in Germany towards the Netherlands and Denmark. This means that transport to Belgium or France, for example, is not allowed with LHVs.

In addition, foreign LHVs wishing to operate in Germany must have a separate inspection certificate. In fact, Germany has stricter requirements than many other countries, particularly in the area of:

• Turning radius
• Mandatory deflection assistant
• Blinking side marker lights

Application process for new pathways

The expansion of the Positivnetz is an ongoing process. Companies wishing to expand their routes to include roads not yet included in the Positivnetz can apply to the Ministry of Transportation of the respective state.

Note: New routes may only be used once they are officially included in the Positivnetz. This usually happens once a year, which means that there may be some time between the application and the actual approval of the route.

What does this expansion mean for transportation companies?

The expansion of the LHV network in Germany offers new opportunities for transport companies, especially for long-distance and intermodal logistics. Shorter routes to logistics hubs and terminals can contribute to a more efficient supply chain, fewer empty miles and reduced CO₂ emissions.

Neele-Vat offers support for LHV transport in Germany

As an experienced logistics service provider, Neele-Vat supports transport companies that want to make use of the LHV opportunities in Germany. With our expertise in cross-border transport, intermodal logistics and route optimization, we help companies take maximum advantage of the extensive LHV network.

Want to learn more about how the new routes can improve your transportation? Contact Neele-Vat for customized logistics solutions.