The Polish Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration of Poland stated on Monday 29 May: “From midnight on June 1 (Thursday), the movement of goods across the border with the Republic of Belarus for trucks, tractors, trailers, including semi-trailers and road trains registered in the territory of the Republic of Belarus or the Russian Federation will be suspended until further notice.”

It is the latest in a series of border restrictions that are implemented as a result of the war in Ukraine, having an impact on the supply chain in the region. For rail freight, the border remains open.

Despite the fact that certain cargo from Russia and Belarus is sanctioned, there is still a steady flow of traffic between these countries and Europe. The border closure for truckers will have a significant impact on these flows.

At the same time, it may result in a spillover to rail freight, as trains will be allowed to cross the border after 1 June. “We may expect some shift to rail, especially for cargo originating in Western Europe. For long distance haulage rail might be a favourable alternative”, said Jakub Walczak from CH Robinson.

Article source: Railfreight