Transport Services and the New 2025 Tax Changes: What Logistics Companies and Their Clients Need to Know

One of the most significant changes is the increase of the standard VAT rate from 19% to 21%, starting August 1, 2025. For companies providing or using transport services, this means:

• Higher prices on invoices

• Necessary adjustments in billing systems

• A review of commercial margins

If you have an ongoing contract with a transport firm and the services take place after August 1, the applicable VAT will be 21%. Whether you are shipping domestically, exporting, or importing goods, you will need to adjust rates or absorb part of the difference in your profit margin.

For companies that broker or subcontract transport—as is the case for us at Crystal Logistics Services—this change involves a rapid update of sales prices and renegotiating rates with suppliers.

A 10% increase in fuel excise duties has a direct impact on road transport services. For clients and partners, this translates to:

• Higher operating costs for every kilometer traveled

• Potential price increases from carriers

• A revision of rates per route and per ton transported

The increase in excise duties creates a chain reaction across all types of transport: general cargo, refrigerated, oversized, as well as imports/exports. For companies working with fixed budgets or long-term negotiated prices, it is essential to include these variations in your calculations.

At Crystal Logistics Services, we regularly update our fuel rate database so that our automated quoting system provides accurate, real-time prices.

Starting January 1, 2026, the tax on dividends will increase from 8% to 16%. While this doesn't directly affect transport services, it targets companies that generate profits and wish to withdraw funds.

If you had a good year in 2024 or have positive estimates for 2025, consider an early distribution of dividends before the end of the year. This way, you can avoid the tax doubling and maintain more available capital.

The CASS (Health Insurance Contribution) will be applied to the portion of a pension that exceeds 3,000 RON, and several exceptions will be eliminated. While this doesn't directly affect transport firms, it may influence the activity of sole traders (PFAs) or retired drivers who continue to work as independent contractors.

Other announced measures include:

• Freezing public sector salaries and pensions in 2026

• Reducing funding for political parties and limiting merit scholarships

Though seemingly unrelated to transport, these measures can indirectly influence the market. A decrease in consumption or payment delays from public institutions can affect the demand for retail transport, industrial goods, or government deliveries.

At Crystal Logistics Services, we adapt quickly so you aren't caught off guard. Here is how we are organizing:

• Updating quoting systems with the new VAT and excise rates.

• Informing clients about legislative changes with a direct impact on transport services.

• Adjusting commercial margins and cash flow based on the new taxes.

• Providing basic tax consultation through our specialized logistics partners.

1. Review contracts that include transport scheduled after August 1.

2. Analyze how excise duties and VAT will affect your final sales prices.

3. Consult with your accountant regarding dividends and CASS.

4. Adjust transport budgets and internal logistics for the 2026 fiscal year.

5. Be prepared for the "Second Wave" of tax changes (Package 2), announced for early August.

The 2025 tax changes will shift how the transport industry operates. However, companies that plan ahead, adjust budgets, and actively collaborate with logistics partners will manage to adapt more easily.

At Crystal Logistics Services, we offer more than just transport services. We offer predictability, partnership, and efficient systems that protect your business during times of change.