Combined transport, integrating rail freight and road transport, has undergone asignificant decrease in its activity in the first half of 2023, mainly due to SNCF strikes linked to pension reform. This situation has led to « reverse modal report »promoting road transport to the detriment of rail. Combined transport operators, which had experienced impressive growth in previous years, had to reduce their expectations, with a significant loss of market share.

In spite of these difficulties, combined transport remains a key player in the ecological transition in the transport sector.41% of French rail freight. The benefits in terms of reducing CO2 emissions and road congestion are undeniable, and the sector has the potential totriple its activity in ten years. However, the first half of 2023 was marked by a 22 per cent fall in rail traffic, highlighting the fragility of the sector in the face of external disturbances.

Combined transport operators also face other challenges such as rising electricity costs, economic slowdown in Europe, infrastructure problems, punctuality... (only 59% of combined transport trains were on time at the end of September 2023).

To overcome these obstacles, the government has put in place a variety of support measures, including the modernization of large terminals and the creation of some new ones, which can benefit from public-private partnerships. In addition, a large-scale operation is planned with the sale by Fret SNCF of 23 lines, including 21 combined transport services, representing 20% of its total activity.

To go further...

• Sales Administration (SDA) Subcontracting Export
• Import/export flow management (air & maritime)
• Diagnosis of international logistics flows

Thanks to ourGlobal Supply Chain Management Experts, move from a transport policy at least so-called to a real supply chain strategy efficient, secure and efficient!