Heathrow's forecourt charge catches out a lot of people, mainly because there is no barrier to remind you. Here is what applies.
The drop-off charge
Heathrow charges a fixed fee each time a vehicle enters a terminal drop-off zone, applying at Terminals 2, 3, 4 and 5. At the time of writing that fee is £7 per entry with a ten-minute maximum stay. There is no per-minute extension — if you overstay or need to come back, you pay again on re-entry.
There is no barrier, which is the problem
Number plate cameras log every entry automatically. Nothing stops you on the day, so it is easy to drive off having forgotten entirely. Payment is made online after the fact, and if it is not settled in time a penalty notice follows. Check Heathrow's official site for the current payment deadline and portal, since these details do change.
Exemptions
Blue Badge holders and motorcycles are exempt from the charge. If you qualify, it is worth registering in advance rather than assuming it will be applied automatically.
Picking up is a separate matter
The forecourt is for dropping off only. You cannot wait there to collect an arriving passenger, regardless of whether you pay the charge. Collections have to be made from a car park — see our guides to the Terminal 5 pick-up point and the other terminals.
How pre-booked transfers handle it
When you book a fixed-price transfer, the price agreed at booking is the price you pay. Charges, parking and waiting are the operator's problem, not something added to your bill afterwards.
Figures here were accurate when written, but Heathrow reviews its charges periodically — check the official Heathrow site before travelling if the exact amount matters to you.