Freight Transport in Europe 2025: Global Solutions for a Changing Market

The transport sector remains particularly dynamic, driven by e-commerce and seasonal exports. But it is facing new challenges. 90% of transport emissions will be reduced by 2050 (European Green Deal), the European carbon tax (CBAM) is being extended to fuels and maritime transport starting this year, and thermal heavy goods vehicles will be gradually banned by 2035.

To stay ahead of the curve, companies must adapt to several major developments:

• Automation and artificial intelligence: Predictive tools and smart technologies now optimize routes and operations, including inventory management, taking into account seasonal variations, weather, etc.
• Sustainability and decarbonization: New European regulations require a reduction in CO₂ emissions for most players, pushing transport companies to modernize their fleets and adopt less polluting vehicles despite rising costs.
• Digital transition and resilience: Digitalization, combined with more environmentally friendly practices, is profoundly transforming the way logistics flows are planned, monitored, and secured. Companies that integrate sustainability into their strategy gain in performance, efficiency, and credibility.
• Blockchain: To go further and/or use the right tools, transport and logistics are increasingly relying on blockchain to integrate all data into a single interface and bring together all stakeholders. The result: complete transparency, rigorous data monitoring, better tools for responding to unforeseen events, and data across the entire logistics and transport chain that can be analyzed and optimized more easily.

According to Eurostat, road transport remains the dominant mode of transport in Europe, with nearly 1,869 billion tonne-kilometers traveled in 2024. Poland, Germany, and Spain are among the leaders in road transport.

 At the same time, rail is gaining ground. France, for example, aims to double the share of rail freight by 2030, an ambitious goal that will require significant investment in existing infrastructure. Switzerland is a European leader in green logistics. In fact, approximately 72% of Alpine transit is by rail. The Swiss Confederation intends to prioritize this mode of transport in its 2050 Energy Strategy.

When it comes to importing goods into Switzerland, choosing a logistics partner is essential. Large multinational transport companies offer standardized, efficient, but relatively unpersonalized services. Conversely, a national company like STAR Logistique favors a customized approach, focused on local knowledge and customer proximity. Furthermore, these large groups are expensive, if not unaffordable, for container, pallet, and other shipments beyond the B2C standard.

 By entrusting your logistics to a Swiss company, you benefit from attentive service, perfect mastery of customs formalities, and rapid responsiveness. These advantages make all the difference when it comes to crossing the border smoothly.

For European companies wishing to sell in Switzerland, working with a national partner offers several concrete advantages:

• Regulatory expertise: Perfect knowledge of Swiss customs procedures, taxes, and requirements. This is useful because Switzerland is not part of Europe and the regulations are different.
• Strategic location: Ideally located warehouses, particularly around Geneva, allow for rapid distribution throughout the country. In addition, warehouses on the other side of the border, in France, facilitate imports/exports and customs procedures. They also allow for temporary storage of goods before a possible border crossing.
• Specialized handling: The ability to transport valuable goods, fragile, or dangerous products, in complete security and confidentiality.

These specific skills guarantee smooth, reliable logistics that comply with local standards.

Today, a good logistics partner no longer simply delivers packages. They offer a complete solution, integrated into your supply chain.

 STAR Logistique perfectly illustrates this modern approach with services covering all your needs:

• Warehousing and inventory management in secure spaces.
• Order preparation and returns management.
• Direct connection with your online store for seamless tracking and e-commerce deliveries.
• Complete management of customs and tax formalities.

Well-structured logistics thus becomes a lever for customer satisfaction and sustainable growth.

​ Cross-docking is a particularly efficient logistics method. It involves transferring goods directly from the receiving dock to the shipping dock, without intermediate storage. The result: shorter lead times, reduced costs, and more agile management.

 For companies importing to Switzerland, this approach is ideal for ensuring fast and seamless deliveries. The pharmaceutical industry, for example, largely uses this method to reduce cold storage costs.

Certain goods require special precautions. STAR Logistique has extensive experience in the transport of dangerous goods (ADR/DGR certifications) and high-value goods, particularly in the watchmaking and luxury goods sectors. Safety and discretion are at the heart of every mission.

Before committing, evaluate these essential criteria:

A network efficiently covering Switzerland and Europe (or according to your needs).

• Modern technological tools to track your shipments in real time.
• In-depth expertise in customs regulations.
• Flexibility allowing for tailor-made solutions.
• A clear commitment to sustainability.

With over 37 years of experience, STAR Logistique combines all these strengths. With its knowledge of the Switzerland-Europe corridor and its commitment to its customers, the company positions itself as a true growth partner.

Freight transport in Europe in 2025 is both demanding and full of opportunities. In this changing environment, relying on a local specialist capable of combining customs expertise, logistics innovation, and tailored support is becoming a decisive advantage.

 By combining a European vision with in-depth knowledge of the Swiss market, STAR Logistique positions itself as a trusted partner to support your development with complete peace of mind.