%20per%20TEU.png?w=480&itok=BVJYXkds)
%20vs%20Road%20(orange)%20from%20Rotterdam%20to%20Lyon%20via%20the%20North%20Sea%E2%80%93Mediterranean%20Corridor..png?w=445&itok=FYSppuVZ)

.png?w=667&itok=ON5et7UP)
Frequently asked questions
Rail freight refers to the transportation of goods and cargo via trains over dedicated railway networks. It is commonly used for long-distance shipments of bulk commodities, containers, and heavy industrial goods, offering an efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to road and ocean transport.
Rail freight is generally categorized into three main types:
- Intermodal Rail Freight – The transportation of shipping containers or swap bodies that can be transferred between trains, trucks, and ships without unloading the cargo. This enables seamless multimodal transport.
- Bulk Rail Freight – The movement of large quantities of loose commodities such as coal, grain, minerals, and chemicals, typically transported in specialized wagons.
- Break-Bulk Rail Freight – The transportation of goods that are not containerized but instead loaded individually, such as heavy machinery, steel, timber, or automobiles.
This classification helps shippers choose the most efficient rail freight option based on cargo type, distance, and supply chain needs.
Pros:
- High Capacity – Trains can carry large volumes, reducing congestion on highways.
- Cost-Effective for Long Distances – More economical than road transport for shipments exceeding 300 km.
- Low-carbon solution – Produces significantly lower CO₂ emissions than trucking.
- Reliable Scheduling – Operates on fixed schedules, reducing delays caused by traffic congestion.
Cons:
- Limited Flexibility – Requires intermodal connections for first- and last-mile delivery.
- Infrastructure Dependence – Cross-border differences in rail gauges, electrification, and regulations can create logistical challenges.
- Longer Lead Times – Compared to air freight, transit times may be slower for urgent shipments.
Rail freight refers specifically to the movement of cargo by trains, while intermodal transport involves using multiple modes of transportation—such as rail, trucking, and shipping—within a single supply chain. Intermodal freight often includes containers that can seamlessly transfer between trains, trucks, and ships, allowing greater flexibility and efficiency.
Rail freight is used for its efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. It is ideal for long-haul shipments, helping reduce fuel costs, lower emissions, and provide reliable transit times. Businesses rely on rail to optimize supply chains, move bulk goods efficiently, and meet environmental targets, especially in Europe and the Asia–Europe corridor, where infrastructure investments are making rail transport an increasingly strategic choice.