Low water levels in European rivers are limiting the transport of goods in Europe

The Rhine Is Getting Shallower, and Transportation Is Getting More Expensive

Low water levels are increasingly disrupting transport on the Rhine, one of Europe’s most important trade routes. Freight traffic to and from Rotterdam is currently about 10% below normal.

With shallower water, barges cannot carry a full load. Shipping companies must therefore dispatch more vessels, wait for conditions to improve, or choose more expensive alternative routes. In practice, this means slower deliveries and reduced transport capacity for grains, oils, chemicals, and other bulk goods.

Problems on the Danube are blocking grain deliveries

The situation on the Danube is also difficult. Some ports are unable to receive grain shipments by river because low water levels restrict the movement of larger and more heavily loaded vessels.

For exporters and recipients, this means having to shift part of the transport to roads or rail. This solution is typically more expensive and less efficient, which is why problems on the rivers quickly translate into higher costs across the entire supply chain. The effects are felt not only by logistics companies but also by commercial, industrial, and energy firms.