Combined Transport in Europe Sees 4.92% Decline in Q1 2026

Combined transport (CT) consignments in Europe experienced a significant decline of 4.92% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, according to the International Union for Road-Rail Combined Transport (UIRR). This downturn is particularly pronounced in Germany, where ongoing line closures and maintenance works have severely impacted rail freight operations.

Germany, a key player in the European rail freight market, reported a staggering 20% decrease in CT performance between 2024 and 2025. UIRR attributed this decline to 'poorly organised works' on the railway infrastructure, which have not provided adequate bypass opportunities for intermodal freight trains. As a result, operators have faced significant disruptions, leading to a drop in volumes that could not be offset by growth in other countries, such as Poland.

The decline in combined transport volumes follows a modest increase of 1.5% in consignments between 2024 and 2025. However, the trend of decreasing volumes became evident in the latter part of 2025, indicating that the issues plaguing the German rail network were already affecting performance before the start of 2026.

Berlin, as one of the largest hubs for rail freight and combined transport in Europe, is at the center of these challenges. The ambitious plans to modernize the railway network have led to extensive disruptions, which UIRR has criticized for their lack of organization. The impact of these infrastructure works is felt not only by freight operators but also by logistics companies that rely on timely and efficient transport solutions.

As the situation develops, stakeholders in the rail freight sector, including logistics providers and freight operators, will need to adapt to the changing landscape. The ongoing infrastructure challenges in Germany may lead to a reevaluation of transport routes and service offerings, as companies seek to mitigate the effects of declining volumes.