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    Land bridge logistics: Transportation solutions linking Asia and Europe

    When it comes to transportation between Asia and Europe, multiple options are available to consider. Land bridge logistics connects the two continents, providing solutions that are environmentally friendly, efficient and secure by integrating sea and rail transport.

    Shipping via Silk Road
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    Efficient shipping solutions along the Silk Road

    The Silk Road is one of the oldest trade routes in the world, connecting Asia and Europe by land and sea. This route, referred to as the land bridge, includes multiple pathways, making it a reliable and flexible transport solution.

    Rhenus land bridge transportation is available as a full-container load (FCL), less-than-container load (LCL) or through freight consolidation along this route. FCL provides dedicated capacity along with added flexibility, while LCL or consolidation via inland hubs in China and Europe is a particularly cost-effective and environmentally friendly option for smaller shipments. Lead times differ depending on this mode of transportation: Westbound transit takes an average of 11 to 22 days while eastbound takes approximately 11 to 24 days. Daily tracking updates provide visibility and reliability during the movement of your goods. The most commonly used container equipment is 40-foot high cube and 20-foot containers, although special equipment is available upon request.

    Graphic that shows different transport modes and how high the cost level and transit time is

    Rhenus land bridge transportation can be carried out as a full-container load (FCL), less-than-container load (LCL) or through freight consolidation along this route. FCL provides dedicated space with added flexibility, while LCL or consolidation via inland hubs in China and Europe is a particularly cost-effective and environmentally-friendly option for smaller shipments. Lead times vary with this mode of transportation: Westbound transit takes an average of 11 to 22 days, eastbound 11 to 24 days. Daily tracking updates ensure transparency and reliability throughout the transportation of your goods. The most commonly used container equipment is 40' high cube and 20' containers, although special equipment is available upon request.

    Stack of blue containers

    Benefits of land bridge transportation

    In comparison with sea transport, land bridge logistics offer a faster alternative.

    Rail transport adjusts rapidly to shifting demands, giving you high flexibility with numerous locations available for container pickup and delevery.

    Land bridge transport serves as a more affordable alternative to air freight while delivering shorter transit times than ocean shipping.

    A variety of route options make land bridge transportation especially reliable.

    Rhenus as your partner for land bridge logistics

    • Our broad experience in rail transport allows us to determine the optimal solution for your transport needs.
    • Container fleet of more than 21,000 containers: At Rhenus we manage our own fleet, allowing us to ensure availability and maintain flexibility for your freight requirements.
    • Dedicated terminal at the Duisburg rail station: With a focus on land bridge operations, our own terminal in Duisburg is a key hub for efficient transshipment and distribution.
    • Strategic hubs for consolidation and distribution: We leverage inland hubs throughout China and Europe to streamline logistics and provide flexibility in delivery.
    • We combine intercontinental expertise with a local presence in all countries along the rail route, supporting secure cargo transport and timely deliveries.
    • With fixed departure times and reliable transit schedules, we are committed to moving your goods to the right place at the scheduled time.

    Value-added services

    Warehouse operative checking a order on a clipping board

    Customs services

    We offer comprehensive customs services in China and Europe, including customs clearance, consulting and related services.

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    Inside view of a warehouse with brown boxes

    Warehousing

    Take advantage of our warehouses along the land bridge route for short-term or exented storage of your goods.

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    Roll of stretch wrap and utility knife on boxes in warehouse

    Packaging

    We offer customized packaging, cargo lashing and securing services for land bridge transport.

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    Are you planning to transport cargo between China and Europe?

    Our international experts are ready to plan your land bridge logistics solution for efficient and reliable transportation along the Silk Road.

    Frequently asked questions

    Land bridge transport refers to the movement of goods along the new Silk Road between Europe and Asia. While primarily land-based, it also supports intermodal solutions that combine both sea and land transport.

    The new Silk Road combines the strengths of rail and sea transport. Compared to purely sea-based options, land bridge transport is faster, more flexible and more reliable. It also offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to air freight.

    The new Silk Road enables connections to China, the CIS countries and Europe.

    In land bridge transportation, security is maintained by means of strict protocols, including secure handling and monitoring of cargo at every stage. If required, we also offer additional services such as specialized seals and motion-detectoion tracking devices to increase security levels.