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In the first quarter of 2025, logistics provider Samskip reported that 91.3% of shipments across its core European corridors arrived on time, signalling a notable shift in performance for the company’s multimodal network.
The results come amid a turbulent period for global trade. Geopolitical tensions, shifting tariffs, and unpredictable shipping lanes have made reliability a rare commodity. While long-haul ocean freight continues to face volatility, Samskip says its integrated sea, rail, and road connections are showing greater consistency than many expected.
The company points to a series of operational improvements over the past year. Vessel-to-rail handovers have been accelerated, terminal processes streamlined, and last-mile coordination made more transparent. All transport is still managed under a single contract via the Seaway Bill, with final proof of delivery issued at the end of the chain.
According to Samskip, these changes have helped address a key concern for shippers who had previously moved away from multimodal transport. In many cases, delays or unpredictability in earlier years had prompted some to revert to road transport despite higher emissions and long-haul costs.
“We know that some customers stepped away in the past. And we understand why,” the company stated, acknowledging that past multimodal operations could not always match road freight for reliability. However, it claims that the current structure is more accountable and transparent, while still maintaining environmental and cost advantages.
The company says it is now encouraging former and potential customers to revisit multimodal options, offering open discussions without commercial pressure. The emphasis, it says, is on showing data-backed performance rather than making assurances.
While industry-wide challenges remain, the 91.3% on-time performance in early 2025 is likely to be closely watched by shippers weighing modal shift decisions in a tightening market. For some, the figures may prompt a reassessment of whether multimodal transport can meet their operational needs in the current climate.
