China-Europe freight Trains Move 1.6 Million teu in first Nine months of 2024
Rail freight between china and europe has seen significant growth this year, driven by enhanced cooperation along the route and improved transport infrastructure. The service has become a reliable, faster, and greener alternative to shipping, while also being more cost-effective.Faster and Cheaper than Shipping
By August 2024, shipping a 40-foot container (FEU) by rail from China to Poland cost less than half the price of sea freight. The trains also deliver goods in about nine days, compared to the 35 to 40 days it takes by sea, according to China Daily.Impact of Red Sea Conflict
The ongoing conflict in the Red Sea region has led to a 67% drop in shipping between China and Europe via the Suez Canal. This disruption has caused sea freight rates to rise significantly, making rail freight an increasingly attractive option. Unlike shipping rates, rail freight costs have remained stable.Capacity Challenges
Despite its advantages, rail freight has limited capacity compared to shipping. A typical freight train carries about 150 TEU containers, while large ocean liners on this route can transport up to 24,000 TEU—equivalent to approximately 160 trains.Year-on-Year Growth
From January to September 2024, the volume of rail freight between China and Europe grew steadily. Trains made 14,689 round trips during this period, marking a 13% increase compared to the previous year. These trains transported 1.57 million TEU of goods, an 11% rise year-on-year.Rail freight is emerging as a critical component of trade between China and Europe, offering a cost-effective and efficient alternative to sea transport, especially during times of regional instability.SeaNews Turkey
