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Land bridge logistics: Connection between Asia and Europe

Land bridge logistics links Asia and Europe through a multimodal approach, combining sea and rail transport to deliver solutions that are sustainable, efficient and secure.

Land bridge freight services along the Silk Road

The Silk Road is among the world’s oldest trading corridors, connecting Asia and Europe via both land-based and maritime routes. As a modern land bridge, this network includes multiple corridors, making it a dependable and adaptable option for international freight transport.

Rhenus land bridge services are available as full container load (FCL), less-than-container load (LCL) or via freight consolidation along this route.
FCL shipments offer dedicated container capacity and greater scheduling flexibility. LCL and consolidated solutions, routed through inland hubs in China and Europe, provide a cost-efficient and environmentally responsible alternative for smaller volumes.

Transit times vary depending on direction and routing. Average westbound transit ranges from 11 to 22 days, while eastbound shipments typically take 11 to 24 days. Throughout the journey, daily tracking updates provide full visibility and operational reliability.

Standard equipment includes 40’ high cube and 20’ containers. Special container types can be arranged on request.

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Benefits of land bridge freight services

Compared with traditional sea transport, land bridge logistics significantly reduce transit times.

Rail-based transport can quickly respond to changing requirements, offering flexible pickup and delivery options across numerous locations.

Transport solutions via the Silk Road can be more economical than air freight while providing faster delivery than sea transport.

Multiple route options ensure high reliability and continuity, even in complex logistics environments.

Benefits of partnering with Rhenus for land bridge logistics

  • With extensive expertise in rail transport, Rhenus develops tailored solutions to match your specific shipping requirements.
  • Operating our own container fleet ensures consistent availability and maximum flexibility for your cargo.
  • Our terminal in Duisburg plays a central role, enabling efficient transshipment and onward distribution.
  • Inland hubs along the route support consolidation, deconsolidation and flexible distribution planning.
  • By combining intercontinental know-how with a strong local presence in all countries along the rail corridor, we ensure secure handling and punctual delivery of your goods.
  • With fixed departure schedules and dependable transit times, we make sure your cargo arrives where it needs to be.

Value-added services

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Customs services

We provide end-to-end customs support in China and Europe, including clearance, advisory services and related formalities.

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Warehousing

Our warehouse network offers both short-term and long-term storage options.

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Packaging

Customized packaging, lashing and cargo securing services are available for safe land bridge freight services.

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Planning a cargo transport between China and Europe?

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

Frequently asked questions

Land bridge transport describes the movement of goods along the new Silk Road between Asia and Europe. While primarily rail-based, it also supports intermodal combinations of land and sea transport.

The new Silk Road merges the advantages of rail and sea freight. Compared with ocean-only routes, land bridge freight services are faster, more flexible and more reliable. It also represents an eco-friendly and cost-efficient alternative to air freight.

Regions that can be accessed are China, the CIS region and Europe.

Security in land bridge transport is maintained through strict handling procedures and continuous monitoring at every stage. Additional options such as special seals and motion-detection tracking devices are available on request.