According to a recent survey commissioned by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport Affairs (BMDV), the number of lorry parking spaces has steadily increased in recent years, yet nearly 20,000 spaces are still lacking.
The survey, conducted in 2023 by Autobahn GmbH des Bundes and analysed by the Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt), has been carried out every five years since 2008. It aims to create a foundation for improving lorry parking.
As with previous surveys, a nationwide assessment was conducted using a standardised methodology developed by BASt. It included all lorries parked overnight at managed and unmanaged rest areas, former border customs facilities, private truck stops, and other known parking locations up to three kilometres from the motorway.
Results of the current survey
The latest data show a significant increase in HGV parking capacity near motorways:
- 2008: 53,871 lorry parking spaces
- 2013: 60,410 lorry parking spaces
- 2018: 70,772 lorry parking spaces
- 2023: 82,489 lorry parking spaces
Of these, around 61,800 spaces are available at federal rest areas, with approximately 20,700 located near motorways, including at truck stops.
How many parking spaces are missing in Germany?
BASt’s analysis cautions that differences in survey methodologies across years affect direct comparability. In 2018, around 23,400 HGV parking spaces were lacking; in 2023, the shortfall was reduced to 19,627—a 16% improvement.
Better parking facilities at night
“The creation of new HGV parking facilities at motorway service areas is an important ongoing task,” the German government stated when asked about efforts to implement the coalition agreement on HGV parking.
Despite the growth in parking spaces, bottlenecks remain, particularly at night. To address this, the government has developed a five-point plan to expand lorry parking:
1. Construction of new truck parking areas
In 2022 and 2023, 781 new spaces were built at federal motorway service areas. Autobahn GmbH plans to add around 1,400 more by 2025, with an annual investment of €100 million for construction and expansion.
2. Increased use of telematics parking systems
Telematic systems help optimise space by allowing more efficient, compressed parking. Four such systems are currently in operation, with three more planned by the end of 2025, including one starting construction in 2024.
3. Digital truck parking status recording
A parking information service based on HGV toll data is being developed to provide real-time information on available spaces. Implementation is scheduled for completion by mid-2026.
4. Better use of existing space
Measures such as reallocating car spaces for lorries at night and reverse parking for HGVs are being trialled. Three pilot projects are operational, with eight more planned by mid-2026.
5. Private investment support programme
A €110 million programme launched in 2021 supports private investment in lorry parking near motorways. To date, 918 of the 1,346 approved spaces have opened, with around €50 million in funding allocated.
5. Industry and local authority involvement
The BMDV notes that while increased rest area projects will reduce demand, they will not fully meet the need. Conurbations pose particular challenges due to a lack of suitable space. Manufacturers, retailers, and local authorities must also contribute by providing parking at delivery sites and integrating parking needs into urban planning.
The BMDV is in ongoing dialogue with industry associations and local authorities to improve conditions for HGV drivers.