The Benefits of Multimodal Transport: Smarter Logistics in Belgium
- Michael Roothans
- 30 jul
- 3 minuten om te lezen
Bijgewerkt op: 7 aug
In this complex landscape, businesses are looking for smarter ways to move goods—solutions that are not only efficient but also resilient and sustainable. Enter multimodal transport: a flexible approach that combines trucks, trains, ships, and even planes to optimize the entire logistics chain.
It's not just a trend—it's a strategic shift reshaping how transport works in Belgium and across Europe.
#1: What is multimodal transport?
#1: What is multimodal transport?
Multimodal transport refers to the use of two or more modes of transportation—such as truck, rail, ship, or air—to move goods from origin to destination under a single contract. The goods stay in the same container throughout the journey, even as the transport mode changes.
For example: A shipment from Liège to Ghent might travel by rail to Antwerp, then continue via inland waterways to its final destination—all without unloading the container.
This smart combination maximizes the strengths of each mode, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
#2: Why it matters more than ever in Belgium
Belgium is a logistics powerhouse, strategically located at the crossroads of Europe. With key ports (Antwerp, Zeebrugge), airports (Brussels, Liège), and an extensive road and rail network, it is built for transport and logistics excellence.
However, Belgium also faces some logistical headaches:
Chronic traffic congestion on main highways like the E313, E19, the Antwerp Ring (R1) and the Brussels Ring (R0)
Rising environmental regulations (e.g., road tolls and emission zones)
Driver shortages in the trucking sector
Multimodal transport offers a long-term, cost-effective, and sustainable answer to these issues, supported by both EU and Belgian government initiatives like the Mobility Plan 2030 and regional subsidies for modal shift.
#3: Key Benefits of Multimodal Transport
Cost reduction
Rail and inland waterway transport are more fuel-efficient and cheaper per ton-kilometer for long distances. You’ll save on fuel, tolls, and even labor costs.
Congestion relief
Taking trucks off Belgian highways helps reduce traffic jams, lowers the risk of delays, and ensures more reliable delivery windows.
Environmental benefits
Rail and ship transport emit significantly less CO₂ than road freight. Multimodal logistics is essential for companies aiming to green their supply chains.
Risk mitigation
Strikes, roadblocks, fuel price hikes, or weather delays? Multimodal transport provides resilience by offering alternative routes and modes.
Access to EU corridors
Belgium is part of the TEN-T core network, making it easy to plug into international corridors that connect ports, cities and major trade hubs across Europe.
#4: How to Implement a Multimodal Strategy
As Belgium evolves into a smarter logistics hub, multimodal transport is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a practical, profitable and sustainable solution. Whether you're a shipper, forwarder, or logistics manager, adopting a multimodal mindset can give you a serious competitive edge.
Switching to multimodal logistics doesn’t have to be complicated. Start small and scale strategically:
Map your current flows: Identify routes that could benefit from rail or barge integration.
Partner with a logistics integrator: They’ll help manage everything from scheduling to mode coordination.
Use tracking and visibility tools: Ensure end-to-end monitoring of shipments.
Leverage Belgian subsidies: Both Flanders and Wallonia offer financial incentives for modal shift and multimodal infrastructure.
Pilot first: Start with a test lane and evaluate the results before expanding.
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