Freight Corridors in Southern Poland: Katowice, Wrocław, Rzeszów (2025)

Introduction

Southern Poland is a logistics powerhouse, home to key industrial regions, international trade routes, and major cities like Katowice, Wrocław, and Rzeszów. In 2025, this region offers businesses robust infrastructure, intermodal hubs, and a skilled logistics workforce. Whether shipping domestically or internationally, efficient transport across southern Poland is essential for staying competitive.

Key Freight Routes and Distances

• Katowice–Wrocław: ~200 km via A4 motorway
• Katowice–Rzeszów: ~250 km via A4 motorway
• Wrocław–Rzeszów: ~370 km via A4 and S19 routes

A4 Motorway:

• Main east-west corridor in southern Poland
• Connects Germany (via Dresden) with Ukraine (via Lviv)
• Supports high freight volumes with service areas and minimal tolls

S19 Expressway:

• Expanding north-south route, connecting Rzeszów to Slovakia and Lublin
• Reduces congestion on older national roads

Logistics Hubs and Infrastructure

• Katowice: Silesian region, a heavy industry and mining center with multiple freight terminals and customs zones.
• Wrocław: High-tech and manufacturing hub, with strong road and rail links to Germany and Czechia.
• Rzeszów: Eastern gateway with growing aerospace and automotive sectors, and access to Eastern European markets.

Intermodal Facilities:

• Terminals in Gliwice (Katowice area), Kąty Wrocławskie, and Jasionka (near Rzeszów) enable containerized rail-road transport.

Transport Options

1. Road Freight (FTL & LTL)

Trucks dominate regional transport, offering speed and flexibility. Both full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) options are widely available.

2. Rail Freight

Used for bulk goods and heavy industry cargo. Frequent services link Katowice and Wrocław with western Europe.

3. Cross-border Links

Southern Poland connects easily to Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, and Ukraine, making it ideal for international freight.

Tips for Efficient Logistics

• Leverage A4 Motorway for fast east-west transport.
• Plan around peak hours in urban centers to avoid delays.
• Use intermodal transport for long-distance or bulk freight.
• Ensure SENT compliance for sensitive goods in transit.

Conclusion

Southern Poland’s cities—Katowice, Wrocław, and Rzeszów—are logistics hubs offering modern roads, rail links, and efficient freight solutions. In 2025, businesses can optimize regional deliveries by using key corridors and choosing experienced logistics partners.