In response to new congestion pricing implemented by New York State, Airpals will be suffering an upcoming rate increase. The new toll, designed to reduce traffic in Manhattan south of 60th Street (see image below), varies by vehicle type and time of day, impacting logistics and transportation costs. To manage this challenge, Airpals will increase rates based on whether pickups and drop-offs occur within the congestion zone, as well as for orders involving vans or trucks which will incur additional toll charges.
To be able to overcome this challenge, we are forced to increase our rates and after careful analysis, we decided to increase pricing in the following structure:
A 3% increase: applies to all orders, regardless of location.
A 5% increase: applies only to orders with pickup or drop-off locations in the congestion zone. (This is a total of 5%, not in addition to the 3% mentioned above.)
Van and truck orders: Congestion tolls will be invoiced as usual and will include all applicable toll charges.
We understand pricing changes are never easy. This adjustment will allow us to:
Comply: with local traffic regulations and the costs of operating in NYC.
Invest in features: to offer more cost-efficient shipping options.
Strengthen our support team: to provide you with better assistance when needed.
FAQ about Congestion Pricing
What is congestion pricing?
Congestion pricing is a system that reduces traffic during peak traffic hours in specific zones. This also aims to reduce pollution and increase the use of public transportation. This system will have drivers pay a fee to enter heavily trafficked areas during peak times, in this case, New York City, in Manhattan.
How will congestion pricing work in New York City?
The congestion pricing plan involves charging vehicles a fee per day to enter Manhattan south of 60th Street. The fees will be variable, based on the time of day, the congestion level, and the type of vehicles, with higher charges during busier times to discourage driving when the streets are most congested. Some discounts and exemptions will apply to certain drivers or vehicles.
When will congestion pricing start in NYC? (2025)
The congestion pricing plan will start Sunday, January 5, and will apply to vehicles entering the Congestion Relief Zone in Manhattan, below 60 Street — which will be charged a toll.
Why is congestion pricing being implemented in NYC?
NYC's congestion pricing aims to address severe traffic congestion in Manhattan's central areas during peak hours, improve air quality, and generate funds for upgrading the city's public transportation system.
How will the revenue from congestion pricing be used?
The revenue generated from congestion pricing (tolls) will be used to fund the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for subway, bus, and rail improvements throughout the region.
This investment is specifically for maintaining and upgrading NYC's public transportation infrastructure.
Are there any exemptions or discounts?
Specific details about exemptions and discounts are on the official MTA page, here.
What are the expected benefits of congestion pricing in NYC?
The primary benefits include reduced traffic congestion in lower and midtown Manhattan, lower emissions, improved air quality, and enhanced public transit services due to increased funding.
Additionally, it may also lead to faster emergency response times and less wear and tear on city roads.
How will drivers be charged under NYC's congestion pricing?
Drivers will be charged automatically as they enter the designated congestion zone via electronic tolling systems, similar to the ones used on toll roads. Cameras and E-ZPass readers will capture license plate information to ensure that all vehicles entering the zone are billed appropriately.
According to MTA, the implemented toll will result in 80,000 fewer vehicles entering the zone every day, relieving crowding in what is today the most congested district in the United States.
By targeting the city's most congested areas, NYC's congestion pricing plan seeks to create a more sustainable and accessible urban environment, aligning with broader goals of enhancing urban life and mobility in one of the world's busiest cities.
