Stronger volumes and more cargo on rail

The first half of the year has brought both challenges and opportunities – but above all, it’s been marked by growing trust. More customers than ever are choosing APM Terminals Gothenburg as the hub for their logistics flows. We’re seeing increased cargo volumes and more climate-smart rail transport during the spring.

Import levels match the pandemic boom

Despite a shaky economic outlook, import volumes through APM Terminals Gothenburg rose by 8.5% in the first half of the year. Per Wahlström, Market Analyst at APM Terminals, explains:

“The economic recovery has been slower than expected – especially for Sweden’s export-driven industry. As the country’s largest port, we act as a barometer for the Swedish economy. Right now, import volumes are at the same level as during the pandemic’s buying boom. However, exports have declined by 3.5%,” he says.

“This creates a better balance between import and export, which reduces the need to reposition empty containers – saving both costs and emissions in our customers’ supply chains.”

More cargo on rail – despite unexpected disruptions

Total rail volumes are up by 8.6% so far this year, with import cargo by train increasing by an impressive 14,6% compared to the same period last year. Several existing shuttle connections have seen volume growth, and the average train capacity has increased from 70 to 80 containers per trip – close to full capacity.

“We’ve worked closely with our customers to maximize train loads, making every journey more cost-effective and sustainable,” says Emil Seferaj, responsible for rail customers at APM Terminals.

This spring, rail traffic to the terminal was temporarily impacted by an unexpected track failure just outside the terminal area.

“We saw a short-term drop in volumes, but the biggest impact was on the rail operators. Once the track was restored, we worked closely with our customers and partners to handle extra trains and reduce the backlog as quickly as possible,” adds Emil Seferaj.