European Intermodal Terminals Face Delays as Container Traffic Surges

By Maria Kalamatas | July 22, 2025

Section: International / Land Transport & Intermodal Logistics

Antwerp, July 22 — Intermodal terminals across Europe are reporting mounting congestion as container volumes spike, with increased flows from Asia and ongoing supply chain re-routing pushing rail and barge connections to their limits.

“Container throughput is running nearly 25 percent above seasonal averages,” said Johan Verbeek, operations director at an Antwerp-based logistics hub. “We’re stretching every resource we have to keep cargo moving.”

Traffic driven by Asia-Europe trade

A combination of diverted ocean cargo, delayed sailings, and early peak season imports has created bottlenecks at major inland hubs, particularly those connecting to Germany, France, and the Benelux region. Some shippers are facing wait times of up to three days for rail slots.

“These aren’t minor fluctuations — they’re sustained surges,” Verbeek explained. “Every terminal is juggling overflow.”

Impact on shippers

Forwarders are scrambling to secure alternative routes, including longer trucking hauls and direct barge options, to bypass congested transfer points. These alternatives, while effective, come at a cost.

“Clients are paying 10 to 15 percent more for guaranteed departures,” said Sophie Martin, a supply chain manager for a French retail importer. “It’s the price of predictability right now.”

Operators add capacity — cautiously

Some terminals are adding night operations and leasing extra yard space, but labor availability and equipment shortages remain challenges. With peak import season approaching, industry leaders warn that disruptions could persist.

“If these volumes hold into August, we’re looking at sustained pressure across the network,” Verbeek noted. “It will take coordination, not just capacity, to stabilize flows.”

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