North Europe: Rhine low water is affecting hinterland transport
Following our customer letter of July 20, 2026, we would like to provide an update on the operational situation in the German hinterland. Water levels on the Rhine have fallen significantly over the past days, further affecting barge operations and inland transport capacity.
Current operational situation
Rail and inland waterway services remain affected by infrastructure works, particularly along the Fulda corridor until July 30, 2026. Capacity towards Southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland remains reduced.
Congestion and low water levels on the Rhine are additionally affecting barge services to and from Rotterdam and Antwerp. Train cancellations, extended transit times and temporary limitations in empty container availability cannot be ruled out.
Rhine water-level update
Water levels are falling faster than previously forecast. On July 27, 2026, the Kaub gauge, the reference point for the Middle and Upper Rhine, stood at 31cm and is expected to fall below 30cm. Based on the current trend, levels may approach the all-time low of 25cm recorded in October 2018 around July 30, 2026.
Below approximately 30cm at Kaub, the Upper Rhine may effectively become non-navigable for inland vessels. The weather outlook for the coming weeks remains predominantly dry, and isolated rainfall is not expected to result in a sustained recovery.
| Gauge | Level on July 27, 2026 | Operational relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Kaub | 31cm | Upper Rhine not navigable below approx. 30cm |
| Cologne | 79cm | Below the 1,05m capacity threshold |
| Duisborg-Ruhrort | approx. 1,7m | Barges at approx. two thirds capacity |
What this means for your bookings
- Confirmed transport and container-positioning dates may have to be rescheduled at short notice. We will aim to provide the earliest feasible alternative.
- Carrier haulage may temporarily be unavailable for affected Rhine locations.
- Where a carrier-haulage booking cannot be confirmed, you will be informed and the booking will be cancelled in our system. Merchant haulage remains available, and the booking may be resubmitted on that basis.
- Empty container availability in the Rhine region may be temporarily limited.
Mitigation and additional charges
Together with our inland partners, we have introduced mitigation measures, including rail and truck shuttles to Duisburg and Emmerich with onward barge transport. We will continue to monitor the situation and inform you of significant operational changes.
The existing Rhine River low water pass-through surcharge remains applicable for import and export cargo until further notice.
As the low water situation is beyond our reasonable control, storage, demurrage, detention and other additional charges incurred in this context will be for the account of the cargo, in accordance with our Bill of Lading terms and conditions and applicable tariffs.
Should you have any questions or require further information, please contact our customer service team at your location, who will guide you based on your individual situation.