Continued Recovery in French Combined Transport

Why It Matters

The rebound underscores combined transport’s role in greener logistics and European supply‑chain resilience, while highlighting competitive pressures from road and river modes.

Key Takeaways

• 2025 combined transport up 3.2% tonne‑km.
• Train‑kilometres rose 4.7% year‑on‑year.
• Combined rail‑road now 45% of France’s rail freight.
• River‑road volumes fell 8.6% amid economic headwinds.
• 77% plan 2026 investments; new Dunkirk terminal opening.

Pulse Analysis

The modest yet steady rise in French combined rail‑road freight signals a maturing intermodal market that is increasingly attractive to shippers seeking sustainability and cost efficiency. After a sharp 18.7% drop in 2023, the sector’s 2025 performance reflects not only the reopening of key Alpine corridors but also the rollout of new services that improve network flexibility. Analysts note that the sector’s resilience stems from its ability to absorb demand shocks faster than traditional rail, positioning it as a strategic asset in Europe’s decarbonisation agenda.

Contrasting the rail‑road upswing, river‑road transport continues to lose ground, contracting 8.6% in TEU volumes. This decline is linked to tighter economic conditions, heightened geopolitical uncertainty, and inherent limitations such as seasonal water levels and slower transit times. As road haulage remains the dominant competitor, river operators face mounting pressure to modernise infrastructure and integrate digital platforms. The divergence highlights a broader modal shift where shippers prioritize reliability and environmental credentials, often favoring rail‑road combos over slower, less predictable river routes.

Looking ahead to 2026, industry sentiment is cautiously optimistic. With 77% of operators planning capital investments—including the new Dunkirk terminal and additional combi services—capacity and service quality are set to improve. However, challenges persist: rail service reliability, infrastructure bottlenecks, and competitive pricing against road freight remain critical hurdles. Stakeholders will need to balance investment in technology, such as real‑time tracking and automated terminals, with policy support to sustain growth. Successful navigation of these dynamics could cement France’s combined transport segment as a cornerstone of a greener, more resilient European logistics network.