Press Release

Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market to Grow with a CAGR of 4.7% through 2030

Growing demand for sustainable and energy-efficient transportation, increasing fuel prices impacting road freight economics, and rising government investment in rail infrastructure are the factors driving the market in the forecast period 2026–2030.

 

According to TechSci Research report, “Rail Freight Transportation Market – Europe Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2020-2030F”, The Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market was valued at USD 225.0 Million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 320.0 Million by 2030 with a CAGR of 4.7% during the forecast period. Europe’s rail freight market is undergoing transformation with logistics shifting to cleaner modes. Rail’s lower emissions and reduced highway congestion are contributing to its preference for long-haul freight. The economic and environmental advantages of rail transportation are being reinforced by growing road transport restrictions and rising diesel costs.

Modern technologies are streamlining freight rail operations. Digitalization enabling cargo tracking, optimizing delivery timelines, and improving asset management. Infrastructure enhancements, alongside automation and smart logistics platforms, are equipping the rail sector to handle increasing demand from key industries requiring bulk and containerized transport. Hurdles continue to exist, including the need for cross-border system compatibility and heavy infrastructure investment. Differing technical standards among countries limits seamless integration. Service providers are working to enhance rail’s reach through interoperable solutions and by extending links to ports and distribution centers. These efforts support steady market expansion through 2030.

 

Browse over Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market Data Figures spread through XX Pages and an in-depth TOC on " Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market"

 

Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market Is Segmented By Aircraft Type, Application, Aircraft Size, and Region.

The traction segment in the European rail freight transportation market comprises electric, diesel, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered locomotives. These propulsion types represent the technological diversity across the continent’s freight network, shaped by infrastructure availability, sustainability goals, and operational needs. Electric locomotives are used where electrified tracks are available, offering high efficiency and low emissions. Diesel traction is employed in regions lacking full electrification or where operational flexibility is necessary. Hybrid locomotives combine electric and diesel capabilities to ensure adaptability across varying track conditions and improve fuel efficiency. Hydrogen-powered trains, though at an early stage, are being introduced to align with decarbonization targets and reduce environmental impact. Each traction type supports different cargo capacities and route profiles, influencing their deployment across industrial corridors and rural lines. Rail operators select traction technologies based on cargo volume, route length, terrain, and access to fueling or charging infrastructure. As sustainability targets become more ambitious, there is a gradual shift toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which is shaping investment in alternative traction systems. The choice of traction also affects maintenance schedules, emissions levels, and long-term operational costs. These dynamics are shaping strategic decisions within the sector, with an emphasis on balancing environmental responsibility and operational reliability.

Spain has emerged as the fastest growing country in the Europe rail freight transportation market in 2024. The country is experiencing significant growth driven by infrastructure upgrades and expansion of its freight corridors. Investments in rail logistics hubs, increased intermodal connectivity, and policy incentives aimed at reducing road congestion are contributing to higher freight volumes moved by rail. Spain’s strategic position linking southern Europe with North Africa and the rest of the EU enhances its importance in trans-European logistics. Major developments in port-rail linkages and improved cross-border routes with France and Portugal are helping to strengthen its role as a regional freight hub. The integration of smart rail technologies and efforts to enhance service reliability are also improving its competitiveness. These factors are making Spain a key growth area for rail freight in the region.

Major Market Players Operating in Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market Are:

  • Deutsche Bahn Aktiengesellschaft
  • DB Schenker GmbH
  • Société Nationale des Chemins de fer Français (SNCF)
  • Geodis S.A.
  • Hupac AG
  • PKP CARGO INTERNATIONAL Sp. z o.o.
  • Rhenus SE & Co. KG
  • SBB Cargo International AG
  • Freightliner Group Ltd
  • Direct Rail Services Ltd.

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The Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market is experiencing steady expansion as logistics providers and infrastructure operators focus on enhancing rail efficiency, improving network reliability, and meeting rising demand for sustainable and cost-effective freight solutions. Rail freight is transforming logistics by enabling large-volume, long-distance cargo movement with lower environmental impact, supporting the transition toward greener supply chains across multiple industries. With continuous advancements in rail technologies, digital systems, and rolling stock materials, operators are developing more durable and energy-efficient components aimed at reducing emissions and optimizing load performance, said Mr. Karan Chechi, Research Director of TechSci Research, a research-based global management consulting firm.

The report titled “Rail Freight Transportation Market– Europe Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Cargo Type (Bulk Cargo, Containerized Cargo, Intermodal Cargo, Specialized Cargo), By Traction Type (Electric, Diesel, Hybrid, Hydrogen), By End-User (Mining, Agriculture, Energy, Manufacturing, Construction, Retail, Automotive, Chemical, Food & Beverages, and Others), By Country, By Competition, 2020-2030F”, assesses the market's future growth potential and provides data on market size, trends, and forecasts. It aims to offer comprehensive market insights, helping decision-makers make informed investment choices. The report also highlights emerging trends, key drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Europe Rail Freight Transportation Market.

 

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