Freight sector under pressure – VNL
VNL has published its second-quarter 2025 outlook on freight transport developments.
The ‘Austrian Supply Chain Pressure Index’ shows a 30% increase, indicating heightened supply risks. In road freight, new customs regulations and a persistent driver shortage are raising costs. Rail transport faces booking declines on the Kazakhstan corridor due to congestion, while routes via Turkey are gaining importance, supported by increased service frequencies.
In seafreight, ongoing Red Sea security concerns are pushing early peak season planning, with tight capacities expected. Airfreight between Europe and the USA is benefitting from expanded cargo capacity, but new customs regulations in the US and planned changes in the EU could dampen Asia-driven e-commerce shipments.
VNL chairman Franz Staberhofer (pictured) concluded the outlook by saying that “if you want to deliver today, you have to understand yesterday – and act tomorrow.” (js)