Today, multimodal transport is not just a buzzword in logistics terminology, but a real tool for optimising costs and ensuring business stability. In 2025, when Ukrainian companies are actively integrating into European supply chains, the ability to combine different modes of transport will become a critical competence. More relevant issues are discussed in the section https://rapid.com.ua/faq, In the meantime, let us tell you why the combination of automotive transport, rail and container shipping gives the best results.
What is multimodal transport in simple terms?
Imagine: you manufacture products in Kharkiv and want to deliver them to a warehouse in Germany. Instead of sending a truck 2,000 km away, you:
- You drive the cargo to the nearest railway terminal (for example, in Kyiv or Lviv).
- The cargo is transported by rail - in a special container - to Poland or Germany.
- Again, by car - from the railway station to the end customer.
In November 2021, Ukraine adopted The Law “On Multimodal Transport” (No. 1887-IX), which regulates all aspects, from paperwork to liability of participants. This law is harmonised with European standards and creates a legal framework for the development of the industry.
Why is this particularly relevant for Ukraine in 2026?
In 2025-2026, Ukrainian exports are actively recovering, and the EU remains a key market. However, at the same time:
- The roads are crowded with trucks, especially on the western borders.
- The cost of diesel fuel remains high.
- European regulators are tightening control over CO₂ emissions (Euro 6, restrictions on the importation of old cars).
- Customers are demanding more transparency and stability in the supply chain.
It is in such circumstances that containerised logistics solutions based on multimodality become the ideal solution.
Key benefits for Ukrainian exporters and manufacturers
The first and most obvious advantage of multimodal transport is the optimisation of international transport by choosing the most efficient transport for each section of the route:
- The vehicle is ideal for short distances and door-to-door deliveries.
- Railways are used to transport large volumes over long distances.
- Containerised logistics solutions allow for the safe transport of goods by various modes of transport without additional repackaging.
According to European logistics operators, a well-planned supply chain in Europe can reduce transport costs by 20-30% compared to using only one mode of transport. This is especially noticeable on routes longer than 500 km.
An additional bonus is the ability to consolidate cargo. If you don't have enough goods to fill an entire container, the Rapid can combine your cargo with others into one container. This can save you another 30-40% compared to renting a full container.
Flexibility and resilience to risks
Multimodal routes allow you to quickly change directions, adjust to the situation at the borders and avoid bottlenecks. This is especially important for companies with regular export and import operations.
When one route is temporarily unavailable, Rapid can quickly switch cargo to another corridor without changing the overall delivery scheme. This approach increases the resilience of supply, which is critical for companies that operate on a just-in-time basis or fulfil contractual obligations to European partners.
That is why optimising international transport has become a priority in the strategies of Ukrainian exporters and manufacturers.
Containers - a universal solution for any cargo
Containerised transport is the heart of multimodal logistics. Standardised 20- or 40-foot containers can be easily transferred from a truck to a railway platform and from there to a ship or back to a truck.
In 2025, container traffic in Ukraine is showing positive dynamics. In January-August 2025, almost 152,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) were transported by rail. The figures are impressive given the military situation.
The European Union is actively supporting the transition to container shipping. According to EU transport strategy, By 2030, at least 30% of cargo should be transported by rail or water, mostly in containers. This means infrastructure development, special discounts on railway tariffs (from 25% to 75% in different EU countries) and a generally favourable environment for this type of logistics.
Simplified workflow and transparency
One of the biggest advantages of working with a multimodal operator is the simplification of document flow. Instead of signing separate contracts with a road carrier, railway, freight forwarder and several other participants, you sign a single multimodal transport agreement.
This is not only convenient, but also reduces legal risks. If something goes wrong - delay, damage to cargo, loss - one operator is responsible, not a dozen different companies.
Modern logistics platforms allow for real-time tracking of cargo, regardless of the means of transport. GPS tracking of containers, electronic document management, and automatic notifications of checkpoints are becoming industry standards.
Environmental component: green logistics as a trend
Freight transport in the EU is increasingly regulated from an environmental perspective. The European Union is setting ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The transport sector is one of the key areas of effort.
For companies seeking to meet the standards ESG, The transition to multimodal transport is not just an economic decision, but also a strategic one. Many European retailers and manufacturers already require suppliers to prove green logistics. If you want to work with large chains such as Carrefour, IKEA or BMW, multimodal transport will become a competitive advantage.
Who in Ukraine can organise multimodal transport?
Not every transport company has the infrastructure to handle multiple modes of transport. To do this, you need:
- Partnerships with railway operators.
- Access to container terminals.
- International customs clearance experience.
- Own fleet of vehicles or a reliable network of road carriers.
Rapid is one of the few companies in Ukraine that can provide a full cycle of multimodal transport. We have more than 65 years of experience, our own Euro 6 fleet, 15,000 m² of warehouses and close cooperation with European railway companies. On https://rapid.com.ua/pro-kompaniyu to learn more about cooperation and the range of services.
Multimodal transport as a strategic choice for logistics 2026
Multimodal transport in Ukraine is not the future, but the present of Ukrainian logistics. In 2025, Ukrainian business is actively integrating into the European market and looking for optimal solutions to reduce costs. And it is the combination of road + rail + container that provides the best balance of price, speed and reliability.
The main advantages are savings of up to 30% on logistics costs, flexibility in choosing routes, simplified document flow, environmental friendliness and compliance with European standards. If you export or import goods, manufacture products for the European market, or are simply looking for ways to optimise your logistics costs, multimodal transport is worth your attention.
Rapid specialises in organising the full cycle of freight transport to the EU. We will help your business build an efficient route by combining the advantages of road and rail transport.
