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Land bridge logistics: Transportation solutions between Asia and Europe

Transportation between Asia and Europe can be managed through different solutions. Land bridge logistics creates a connection between the two continents through the combined use of sea and rail transport, delivering environmentally friendly, secure and efficient transportation solutions.

Efficient transport solutions along the Silk Road

Connecting Asia and Europe by land and sea, the Silk Road is one of the oldest trade routes in the world. Referred to as the land bridge, it combines multiple pathways to create a flexible and reliable transportation solution.

Along the land bridge route, Rhenus transportation services are available as full-container load (FCL), less-than-container load (LCL) or freight consolidation solutions. Dedicated space and increased flexibility are offered through FCL, while LCL and consolidation via inland hubs in China and Europe represent a particularly cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for smaller shipments. Transportation lead times vary by direction, with westbound transit averaging 11 to 22 days and eastbound transit ranging from 11 to 24 days. Daily tracking updates maintain transparency and reliability throughout the movement of your goods. The container equipment most commonly used includes 40-foot-high cube and 20-foot containers, although special equipment can also be provided upon request.

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Benefits for you

As an alternative to sea transport, land bridge logistics enables faster transportation.

With various locations available for container pickup and drop-off, rail transport delivers a high level of flexibility by adapting quickly to changing requirements.

Compared to air freight, land bridge transport is a more cost-effective option and delivers faster transit times than sea freight.

Land bridge transportation is especially reliable thanks to multiple route options.

Rhenus as your partner

  • With extensive experience in rail transport, we develop the optimal solution for your transport needs.
  • Container fleet of more than 21,000 containers: By operating our own fleet, Rhenus ensures high availability and flexible solutions for your freight requirements.
  • Dedicated terminal at Duisburg rail station: Focused on land bridge operations, the Rhenus terminal in Duisburg plays a key role in efficient transshipment and distribution.
  • Strategic hubs for consolidation and distribution: By utilizing inland hubs across China and Europe, we optimize logistics processes and ensure greater delivery flexibility.
  • Our intercontinental expertise together with our local presence in every country along the rail route enables safe cargo transport and reliable timely deliveries.
  • Thanks to fixed departure times and dependable transit schedules, we ensure that your goods arrive at the right place at the right time.

Value-added services

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Customs services

Our comprehensive customs services across China and Europe include customs clearance, consulting and additional related services.

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Inside view of a warehouse with brown boxes

Warehousing

Use our warehouses located along the land bridge route for the temporary or long-term storage of your goods.

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Packaging

For land bridge transport, we deliver customized solutions for packaging, lashing and cargo securing.

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Looking to organize cargo between China and Europe?

For efficient and reliable transportation along the Silk Road, our international experts are ready to create your logistics solution.

Frequently asked questions

The movement of goods between Europe and Asia along the New Silk Road is known as land bridge transport. This transportation method is mainly land-based but also allows intermodal solutions combining sea and land transport.

By combining rail and sea transport, the New Silk Road brings together the advantages of both transportation modes. In comparison with transport solutions based solely on sea transport, the land bridge provides greater speed, flexibility and reliability. At the same time, it serves as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective alternative to air freight.

Access to China, the CIS countries and Europe is provided through the New Silk Road.

Security in land bridge transportation is maintained through strict protocols that include secure cargo handling and continuous monitoring at every stage of the transportation process. When needed, we also provide special seals and motion detector tracking devices to increase security.