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.
Download Sample Report
Customers can also request
for 10% free customization on this report.
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.
Contact Us-
TechSci Research LLC
420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 300,
New York, United States- 10170
M: +13322586602
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.techsciresearch.com