In August 2025, the London Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has undergone a significant expansion, pushing its boundaries further into Greater London. This expansion has serious implications for courier companies and last-mile delivery drivers. With courier route restrictions becoming stricter, it’s more important than ever for logistics businesses to stay compliant and adapt swiftly.
London’s ULEZ aims to reduce harmful vehicle emissions by charging high-polluting vehicles a fee to enter the zone. In 2025, with the rise of e-commerce and rapid delivery expectations, this update directly affects courier operations across the city.
What Is the ULEZ and What’s New in 2025?
The London Ultra Low Emission Zone is a designated area where vehicles must meet strict emission standards or face a daily charge. Originally covering Central London, ULEZ has been expanded multiple times. In 2025, the ULEZ has now enveloped nearly all boroughs within the M25 ring road, impacting thousands of courier vans operating in these areas.
Key 2025 ULEZ changes include:
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Expansion to include outer boroughs such as Croydon, Barnet, and Bromley.
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Introduction of automated number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras at hundreds of new entry points.
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Enhanced emission checks for diesel courier vans.
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Fee increase from £12.50 to £15 per non-compliant vehicle per day.
How Courier Route Restrictions Are Being Affected
With the expansion, courier route restrictions have intensified. Non-compliant vehicles are either being rerouted outside ULEZ zones or upgraded to cleaner models. Fleet managers are now forced to reconfigure delivery schedules, optimize routes, or invest in ULEZ-compliant vans.
Impacts on delivery logistics include:
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Increased delivery time for drivers trying to avoid ULEZ.
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Higher operational costs due to emission charges.
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A shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles for inner-city deliveries.
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Need for updated GPS and route-planning tools to stay within compliant paths.
Adapting to the ULEZ – What Courier Companies Are Doing
To cope with the 2025 ULEZ update, courier companies are adopting greener and smarter strategies. Here’s how they’re staying ahead:
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Fleet electrification: Companies like DPD, Hermes, and Amazon are increasing the number of electric vans in their fleets.
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Driver training: Focused on eco-driving techniques to reduce fuel usage and emissions.
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Logistics hubs: Establishing micro-depots within ULEZ zones to handle last-mile delivery with bikes or e-vans.
These adaptations are not just necessary for legal compliance, but they also align with consumer preferences for greener deliveries.
ULEZ Charges and Courier Planning – 2025 Cost Overview
Below is a table summarizing the charges and emission requirements relevant to courier services in London under the 2025 ULEZ rules:
| Vehicle Type | ULEZ Compliance Requirement | Daily Charge (Non-Compliant) | Common Use in Courier Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel Van (Pre-2016) | Euro 6 | £15 | Still used by smaller courier firms |
| Petrol Van (Pre-2006) | Euro 4 | £15 | Rarely used now |
| Electric Van | Fully Exempt | £0 | Growing rapidly |
| Hybrid Van | Must meet emission standard | £0–£15 | Used during fleet transitions |
The Future of Courier Delivery in London Post-ULEZ
With these new rules, courier businesses are facing an urgent need to transform. There is growing pressure to transition toward zero-emission vehicles, particularly for companies aiming to deliver within Central London and major boroughs. The 2025 ULEZ expansion is just one part of a broader climate strategy that will tighten further in the coming years.
By 2030, the UK plans to phase out new diesel and petrol vehicle sales altogether, which means the logistics industry must plan far ahead.
FAQs
What areas are included in the London Ultra Low Emission Zone as of 2025?
The ULEZ in 2025 now covers almost all boroughs within the M25, including Croydon, Barnet, Bromley, and outer London areas.
How do courier route restrictions work under the new ULEZ rules?
Courier routes are restricted if the vehicle is non-compliant. Companies must either reroute to avoid charges or upgrade their fleet to meet emission standards.
Are electric courier vans exempt from ULEZ charges?
Yes, fully electric courier vans are 100% exempt from ULEZ charges, making them the preferred choice for deliveries within the zone.
What is the cost of entering ULEZ with a non-compliant courier van in 2025?
As of 2025, the cost has increased to £15 per day for non-compliant vehicles operating within the ULEZ.
How can courier companies adapt to these new ULEZ rules?
They can adapt by switching to electric or hybrid vehicles, retraining drivers for fuel efficiency, updating route planners, and using micro-depots for last-mile delivery.
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