Haulage organisations have come together to support the new heavy goods vehicle (HGV) levy.

The tax, which comes into force today (April 1st), will be applicable to foreign firms using the UK's roads. This will be the first time they have had to pay any form of charge and it is hoped the new initiative will help make British companies more competitive, especially with their European rivals.

All HGVs weighing 12 tonnes or more will have to pay the charge. It is a time-based levy of up to £1,000 per year or £10 per day. Discounts will be made available for firms working for long periods of time in the country.

The Road Haulage Association stated it was pleased the government had brought forward implementation of the tax by almost a full year. Its director of policy, Jack Semple, stated ministers had worked hard to ensure the scheme had minimal impact on UK companies.

Karen Dee, director of policy at the Freight Transport Association, commented: "Until now, operators of foreign HGVs have paid nothing in UK taxes. They pay vehicle tax in their own country, and buy low-taxed diesel before entering the UK." 

By law, all nations will have to pay the new levy. UK-based companies should be compensated for this by seeing a reduction in vehicle excise duty.