Demand for China rail accelerating

Rail freight services from China to Europe have seen a massive increase in volumes, as PPE driven demand for air freight resulted in congestion, lengthier transits and disrupted air cargo supply chains.

Rail cargo throughput from China to Europe during the recent peak increased by 40% over the same period year on year.

By train, importers in the UK are able to receive goods faster by rail than Sea, and rail also offers a good alternative to Air, which has recently experienced delays, and is more expensive than rail. Export flows have also been gathering pace, with a notable increase in enquiries in recent months.

Laden freight trains leave European terminals daily and Chinese terminals are still achieving between five to ten departing trains per week to Northern Europe, which has enabled many importers to continue operating close to business as usual.

Metro believe that the future is bright for freight trains to and from China, as many other businesses start to recognise the benefits of this environmentally friendly transport alternative, which incorporates road transport for collection and delivery in China and between the European rail terminal and UK delivery/collection points.

The China-Europe freight train service has clear benefits and while it may not become the main means of transporting goods between China and Europe, it has distinct cost and transit benefits that should form part of every supply chain managers planning.

Metro is pleased to offer regular direct services to and from China and Northern Europe rail terminals, with dedicated onward delivery by truck to the UK.