Update: 07.06.2024

The flooding situation in the south of Germany has eased in the past few days, allowing barge traffic on the Rhine River to resume in most areas. 

Water levels in the Upper Rhine at the Maxau gauge fell below flood levels. However, depending on weather conditions, the level could rise again in the coming week.

The DP World terminal in Mannheim announced that operations and shipping on the Upper Rhine returned to normal.

In addition, railway services have resumed cargo transport but reported some disruption in the Munich area. On 5 June, only a single-track route was operational to and from Munich.

On 5 June, the route to the Augsburg terminal remained closed. However, the Ulm, Regensburg, Passau, Burghausen, Munich, Wolfurt, Salzburg, Enns and Vienna terminals can be accessed again, albeit partially with diversions and longer delivery times.

Rail cancellations are still expected despite the improvement due to a lack of inbound trains at seaports. Occasional delays in deliveries to seaports are also to be expected.

Original article: 03.06.2024

On Monday, a portion of the Rhine River in southern Germany was inaccessible to cargo ships due to high water levels caused by heavy rains.

According to the German inland waterways navigation organization WSA, Rhine River shipping has ceased near Maxau and Mannheim in south Germany.

In addition, DP World Mannheim has announced suspending operations at its terminal due to high waters.

The high water levels make it impossible for ships to travel under bridges, as there is not enough room overhead. This also prevents ships from going to Switzerland.

In the meantime, the northern portions of the river, which include the significant locations of Duisburg and Cologne, are experiencing regular shipping. However, the situation may change based on weather conditions.

The Rhine is Central Europe's most significant inland waterway. Situated between Duisburg and the Dutch border on the Lower Rhine, over 150 million tonnes of cargo are moved annually. 

Impact on road and rail transport

Local businesses reported significant infrastructure damage to rail tracks and roads in the region, expected to cause long transport delays.

The latest information shows that rail terminals in Augsburg, Munich, and Ulm are currently not accessible. Rail lines via Günzburg and Geislingen were also closed as a result of track damage.

Kuehne+Nagel is following the situation closely. For more information, please reach out to your local representative.