Sanctions Push Russia to Broaden the Use of Intermodal Rail

Why It Matters

Sanctions are forcing Russian logistics to re‑engineer freight flows, potentially reshaping the country’s transport cost structure and asset utilization. The shift could influence competitive dynamics between rail and road operators across Eurasia.

Key Takeaways

• Intermodal rail tests launched near Saint Petersburg.
• Piggyback volume grew 22% nationwide in 2025.
• Sanctions accelerate shift from trucks to rail.
• Road transport remains cheaper than rail freight.
• RZD owns over 160,000 wagons for intermodal service.

Pulse Analysis

The recent intermodal trials in north‑western Russia reflect a strategic pivot by Russian Railways to mitigate the impact of Western sanctions. By loading semi‑trailers directly onto trains, RZD aims to preserve scarce truck and trailer assets while leveraging its extensive wagon fleet. The move builds on a decade of experimentation, from early 2019 pilots to a fully‑loaded semi‑trailer service in 2022, and aligns with a 22% national increase in piggyback volumes recorded in 2025. This growth underscores a broader trend toward rail‑centric freight solutions in a constrained economic environment.

From a cost perspective, piggyback transport offers tangible benefits: reduced wear on road vehicles, lower maintenance expenses, and the potential to streamline long‑haul logistics. However, the economic calculus remains challenging because road haulage still undercuts rail on price, especially given RZD’s mandatory infrastructure fees that do not apply to trucks. Analysts note that without policy adjustments—such as parity in infrastructure charges or subsidies—the price gap may limit broader adoption, keeping intermodal projects confined to pilot phases and niche routes.

Looking ahead, the success of these pilots could reshape Russia’s freight landscape. If rail can demonstrate reliability and competitive pricing, it may capture a larger share of long‑distance cargo, particularly on routes like Moscow‑Vladivostok where distances favor rail efficiency. Moreover, the experience offers lessons for other sanction‑affected economies seeking to diversify transport modes. Policy shifts that level the playing field between road and rail could accelerate intermodal growth, fostering a more resilient, multimodal logistics network across the Eurasian corridor.