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Exceptionally low water levels on the Rhine are once again disrupting inland waterway transport across North-West Europe, forcing cargo onto already constrained road and rail networks and creating significant congestion around Europe's largest logistics hubs.

According to reports from market participants, water levels at key Rhine gauges, including Kaub, have fallen below critical navigation thresholds following prolonged heatwaves and drought conditions. As a result, inland shipping operators have introduced or increased low-water surcharges while significantly reducing vessel loading capacities. In some sections of the Rhine, barge movements are now taking place only by agreement between operators, reflecting the severity of the situation.

The disruption extends well beyond inland navigation. With barges carrying between 20% and 60% less cargo than under normal conditions, increasing volumes are being diverted to road transport. This comes at a particularly challenging time, as road infrastructure around Antwerp is already under pressure from the ongoing Oosterweel construction works. Market sources report growing congestion on the main access routes to the ports of Antwerp and Rotterdam, including the R1, E13, E34 and A12, while container terminals are approaching or exceeding available storage capacity.

The impact is also being felt in port operations. Some inland terminals have reportedly introduced "drop one, pick one" arrangements for barge containers to prevent further yard congestion. Waiting times of 32 to 44 hours for deep-sea vessels and up to 72 hours for inland navigation have been reported, adding further delays throughout the supply chain.

Rail freight is absorbing part of the diverted traffic, but available capacity remains limited. Additional demand is increasing pressure on rail terminals, requiring more complex operational planning and creating local congestion around key hubs.

Industry sources indicate that substantial rainfall will be required before navigation conditions improve and low-water surcharges can be lifted. Until then, shippers and logistics providers should expect continued operational constraints, longer transit times and increased transport costs across the region.