In IRS Form 2290, logging vehicles refer to highway motor vehicles that are used exclusively for transporting forest products, such as logs, from the forest to a mill or processing location. These vehicles are eligible for a reduced tax rate than regular heavy vehicles.
What are the requirements to qualify as a logging vehicle?
To qualify as a logging vehicle, you must meet both of the following conditions. They are
- Vehicles must be used only for the transportation of harvested forest products (like timber, logs, etc.).
- Vehicles must be registered as logging vehicles under state laws.
If you meet the above conditions, you should mention that your vehicle is a “Logging Vehicle” on Form 2290.
Note: If a vehicle does not meet both criteria, it must be taxed as a regular vehicle.
Is there any tax benefit for logging vehicles?
Yes, logging vehicles do receive a tax benefit when filing IRS Form 2290. These vehicles qualify for a reduced Heavy Vehicle Use Tax (HVUT) rate – specifically, a 25% concession compared to regular heavy vehicles.
The table below shows the different vehicle categories along with their tax amounts for regular and logging vehicles.

Note: You can download the above image in PDF format.
How to File Form 2290 for Logging vehicles using TaxZerone?
- Sign in to TaxZerone
Sign in to your TaxZerone account to begin your HVUT 2290 filing.
- Access the Excise Tax Dashboard
- Go to the Excise Tax Form dashboard and click on the “Dashboard” button.
- Select the “Start New Return”
- Add Your Business Information
- New to TaxZerone? Select “Add New Business” and enter your business details to begin the filing process.
- Returning User? Choose “Select From Address Book” to autofill your saved business information.
- AutoMagic2290 (Recommended): Upload your prior year Schedule 1 and we will automatically carry forward the relevant data to save you time.
Tip: Click here to watch the AutoMagic2290 video
- Enter Filing Details
Fill in the required information for your return:- Vehicle details
- Tax period and First Used Month (FUM)
- Taxable vehicles (make sure to indicate if it’s a logging vehicle)
- Suspended and prior year suspended vehicles (if any)
- Credit vehicles (if any)
- IRS payment details
- Add Additional Services (if needed)
Choose any additional services if needed and provide your card details.
- Transmit to the IRS
Review your Form 2290 return and securely transmit it to the IRS.
Filing HVUT 2290 for a Logging Vehicle?
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Last modified: January 27, 2026


