Road transport, maritime shipping, and air freight each play distinct roles in shaping the European logistics industry. These transportation modes cater to different industry needs, from just-in-time deliveries through road shipping to the vast capacity and reach of maritime transport and the rapid transit times offered by air freight.
Road Transport
Road freight accounts for approximately 55.75% of domestic and intra-European transport. It holds a commanding position within Europe because the continuous connections minimize delays and ensure timeliness. This mode is particularly advantageous for industries requiring just-in-time delivery such as automotive manufacturing, retail, and agriculture. Automotive manufacturing, a major sector in Germany, operates on tight production schedules that require precise delivery of parts to avoid costly disruptions in assembly lines. Similarly, retail sectors must quickly replenish stock to meet consumer demand without overloading storage facilities.
The agricultural sector also relies on just-in-time delivery to maximize the freshness of produce. For instance, in Spain, one of Europe’s largest producers of fresh fruits and vegetables, road transport enables the transfer of produce from farms in Andalusia to major supermarkets throughout the continent in under 24 hours. Similarly, in the Netherlands, known for its vast production of flowers and ornamental plants, road transport enables the shipping of produce within a day from the flower auctions in Aalsmeer to key purchasing countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.
Maritime Shipping
Maritime transport accounts for 67.8 percent of freight over long distances and intra-continentally. Due to its unparalleled ability to ship large quantities in a single voyage across vast distances, Europe relies on maritime transport for both importing and exporting goods. Cargo exported from Europe includes machinery, vehicles, pharmaceuticals, and luxury items which reflect the continent’s industrial and technological expertise. In contrast, imports to Europe primarily consist of raw materials such as crude oil, natural gas, and iron ore which are essential for its energy and manufacturing sectors.
Additionally, Europe imports agricultural products like coffee, cocoa, and tropical fruits because these are not typically grown in the continent’s climate. This requires their transportation from regions where they are cultivated to meet European consumer demands.
Air Freight
Air transport holds a minimal share in the EU’s freight transport sector. Over the past decade, it has consistently accounted for about 0.2% of the total freight transport performance. Despite these constraints, air freight offers advantages such as minimal cargo handling which reduces the risk of damage. This is especially important for sensitive electronic components like semiconductors and microprocessors which are susceptible to damage from excessive handling.
Another advantage of air freight in Europe is its unmatched speed which allows perishable goods to be delivered in optimal condition. For example, fresh Norwegian salmon destined for Japan is often transported by air to ensure it maintains its freshness upon arrival. Similarly, tropical fruits like pitahaya and granadilla are often shipped from countries like Ecuador and Colombia by air to maintain their freshness and quality.