The number of British HGV drivers using cash payments to pay for truck parking in the UK has fallen from 4% in 2022 to just 2%, with a similar trend emerging in Europe where only 7% of HGV drivers used cash to pay for parking in 2024., according to a survey by digital payment system provider SNAP. 

The findings come from a survey by digital payment system provider SNAP, which asked over 700 drivers about their payment methods.

The survey found that in 2022, cash payments were one of the preferred methods for European drivers, with 22% chosing this payment method compared to just 5% using SNAP. 

However the data also showed that digital payment solutions, such as SNAP, are gradually becoming the preferred payment method among drivers and fleets. Across the three years, a 12% increase of European drivers were opting to use SNAP. 

From those surveyed in 2022, 81% of European drivers not using SNAP agreed that the most attractive benefit of the service is not having to claim back their costs, a process that can leave drivers out of pocket for weeks.

Trends in the data from SNAP’s survey also show the gradual decline of cash and card payments in Europe, aligning with industry advancements and SNAP’s expansion into the continent. 

Although 30% of drivers still predominantly use cards throughout Europe, this number has declined by 20% over the two years. Cash payments were at their lowest, with only 11% of drivers using this method, while SNAP usage had increased by 12%. 

The UK saw a similar trend — cash payments were one of the lowest preferred payment methods in 2022, at 4%, decreasing to just 2% in 2024. SNAP was the preferred payment method, with over 80% of drivers using the digital platform in 2024. 

The company said that as technology advances, fleet operators are opting for digital platforms to reduce costs, save time, and improve usage and cost visibility. 

External factors, such as the rising parking costs, have also made it difficult for drivers to pay with cash, as fees often exceed the amount drivers carry. In addition, truck parks have shifted to digital payment systems to handle increased frequency and higher costs, often phasing out cash. 

Snap said this transition improves profitability and optimisation for location managers on the SNAP network - 65% of the total revenue at the award-winning Red Lion Truck Stop has come from being on the SNAP network. 

Matthew Bellamy, SNAP’s managing director, commented: “It’s clear to see the importance and benefits of cashless payments in the haulage industry. Not only are digital payments safer, but they also provide a more streamlined bookkeeping process for all parties.” 

“As technology within the industry progresses, we’re excited to see what the future holds for contactless parking payments and the role SNAP will play in its development.”

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