Between 2024 and 2025, the Polish rail freight sector experienced a notable decline in transported volumes, measured by both total tonnes and tonne-kilometres. This downturn makes rail the sole transport mode in Poland to register such a decrease during this period. In contrast, the road and air cargo sectors within the country demonstrated growth.
For freight forwarders and operations managers, this trend in Poland's rail sector suggests potential shifts in domestic logistics strategies. Reduced rail volumes could indicate a move towards other modes, particularly road, for internal distribution or transit within Poland. This might lead to increased competition and potentially lower rates for rail services, while road freight could see higher demand and possibly rate increases. Forwarders should monitor modal split changes and adjust their routing and carrier selection strategies accordingly, especially for shipments involving Poland as an origin, destination, or transit country.
