Freight Transport in Poland: Key Trends for 2025

Poland, at the crossroads of Europe, has become a logistics powerhouse. With modern infrastructure, access to major European markets, and a strategic location, it plays a pivotal role in freight transportation. In 2025, Poland’s transport industry continues to evolve, with new regulations, technologies, and sustainability trends shaping operations. This guide covers everything businesses and carriers need to know to navigate freight transport in Poland efficiently and legally.

Overview of Poland’s Logistics Sector

Growth and Development

Poland’s logistics market has grown steadily over the past decade. The country has invested heavily in road and rail networks, making it a key transit point for East-West and North-South trade corridors. With the EU supporting cross-border infrastructure projects, Poland remains competitive and attractive for freight forwarding companies.

Key Transport Corridors

Some of the busiest freight corridors include:

A2 Highway: Connecting Warsaw to Berlin – vital for international trucking.
A1 Highway: North-South corridor from Gdańsk port to the Czech border.
Rail Freight Hubs: Terminals in Łódź, Poznań, and Silesia support intermodal transport.
Seaports: Gdańsk and Gdynia handle substantial container volumes.

Regulatory Updates in 2025

SENT System Requirements

Starting January 2025, all freight entering or transiting Poland must be registered in the SENT system, including goods transported by foreign carriers. This applies to shipments of sensitive goods such as fuel, alcohol, or tobacco. The updated regulation aims to improve transparency and prevent smuggling.

Failing to register in SENT may lead to fines of up to 12,000 PLN (~€2,800) per violation. Carriers must ensure real-time location tracking and accurate reporting.

Impact on International Carriers

Foreign logistics companies must prepare by integrating SENT compliance into their operations. This includes:

Registering transport vehicles and routes in advance.
Ensuring drivers are trained to handle inspections.
Using telematics for tracking and proof of compliance.

Choosing the Right Freight Company

Key Selection Criteria

When shipping goods across Poland, the choice of freight partner is crucial. Here’s what to consider:

Experience & Reliability: Long-standing companies with proven track records often offer better reliability.
Fleet Size & Capabilities: Ensure the carrier has the right vehicles for your cargo type (e.g., refrigerated, oversized).
Certifications: Look for ISO standards, ADR (for dangerous goods), and SENT compliance.
Insurance Coverage: Confirm cargo is insured during transit for theft, damage, or loss.

Top Freight Companies in Poland 2025

Leading names in the Polish freight market include:

DB Schenker Poland – Strong in road and intermodal freight.
DSV Road Poland – Offers European-wide coverage with customs support.
Raben Group – Known for LTL services and warehousing.
PEKAES – Focused on domestic freight and e-commerce logistics.
Kuehne+Nagel Poland – Premium services and international expertise.

Freight Costs and Delivery Times

Average Freight Rates

Polish freight costs in 2025 are influenced by fuel prices, labor costs, and regulations. On average:

Domestic transport (truckload): 2.00–2.50 PLN per km.
LTL shipments: 300–600 PLN depending on weight and distance.
Cross-border EU shipments: 0.60–0.90 EUR per km.

Cost Influencing Factors

Cargo type: Dangerous goods or temperature-sensitive loads are more expensive.
Distance & region: Longer hauls and mountainous regions can raise costs.
Urgency: Express shipping costs 20–40% more than standard.
Tolls & fees: Poland’s e-TOLL system applies to most highways.

Future Trends in Polish Freight Transport

Digitalization & Technology

Polish logistics is rapidly embracing technology:

Telematics & IoT: Real-time vehicle tracking and route optimization.
TMS (Transport Management Systems): Streamline operations and paperwork.
AI & Big Data: Predictive analytics for demand forecasting and fleet management.

Sustainability Initiatives

Environmental concerns are shaping freight transport policies:

Green Logistics Certifications: More companies seek eco-certifications to track carbon emissions.
Low-Emission Zones (LEZs): Cities like Kraków and Warsaw restrict high-emission trucks.
Electric Trucks & Biofuels: Growing investment in alternative fuel fleets.

Companies that invest in sustainable transport may gain competitive advantages and benefit from EU subsidies for eco-initiatives.

Tips for Shippers and Carriers in 2025

Stay Updated: Subscribe to Polish Ministry of Infrastructure bulletins.
Train Staff: Ensure all drivers and logistics teams understand SENT, e-TOLL, and LEZ rules.
Leverage Partnerships: Work with customs brokers and freight forwarders for smooth cross-border operations.
Use Freight Platforms: Digital marketplaces (e.g., GetTransport.com, Trans.eu, TimoCom) help find reliable carriers quickly.

Conclusion

Freight transport in Poland remains a dynamic and growing sector. In 2025, navigating this market requires compliance with new regulations, selecting the right logistics partners, and leveraging technology for efficiency. Whether you’re a local business or an international exporter, understanding Poland’s freight landscape ensures smooth, cost-effective, and timely deliveries.

Need help finding a freight company or complying with SENT in Poland? Contact us for expert support and logistics solutions tailored to your needs.

Freight Transport in Poland 2025: A Comprehensive Guide