A recent study commissioned by the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) has concluded that Europe is well-positioned to significantly expand its rail freight sector. The report identifies that all fundamental components for a thriving rail freight network are present across the continent. However, the primary challenge lies in the actual execution of policies and initiatives designed to foster this growth.
Despite the clear advantages of rail freight, such as environmental benefits and capacity for large volumes, the modal shift from road to rail has not progressed as rapidly as anticipated. The study underscores that while strategic frameworks and supportive regulations exist, their practical application and coordination across different national railway systems remain insufficient. This gap between potential and performance is hindering the sector's ability to compete effectively with other transport modes.
For freight forwarders and logistics professionals, this means that while the long-term vision for European rail freight is positive, current operational improvements and capacity expansions may be slow to materialize. Forwarders should continue to monitor policy implementation and infrastructure investments, as these will directly influence future routing options, transit times, and potentially, rate competitiveness. The lack of swift implementation could lead to continued reliance on road transport for certain corridors, impacting lead times and carbon footprint goals.
To unlock rail freight's full potential, the study suggests a concerted effort across member states to streamline cross-border operations, enhance infrastructure utilization, and invest in modern rolling stock and digital solutions. The emphasis is on moving beyond planning and into tangible actions that can accelerate the modal shift and create a more robust, efficient, and sustainable rail freight system.
