International Transport - Rail

Using rail transport for international trade

Rail transport is a cost-effective and efficient way to move your goods. It offers you the following advantages :

• fast rail links throughout Europe
• it is environmentally friendly compared with other transport modes

However, there are also risks for rail transport:

• routes and timetables available can be inflexible, especially in remote regions
• rail transport can be more expensive than road transport
• mechanical failure or industrial action can disrupt services
• further transportation may be needed from a rail depot to the final destination, adding to costs and affecting delivery schedules

INSURANCE AND DOCUMENTATION

If you transport goods by rail, the Convention Concerning International Carriage by Rail (COTIF) is the system of law which applies in the 45 states in Europe, North Africa and the Middle East that are members of OTIF, the International Organisation for International Carriage by Rail.

You should also be aware of the CIM consignment note that sets the conditions for transporting non-dangerous goods by rail. CIM rules mean that your carrier only takes responsibility for insuring your consignments against loss or damage from the time they take possession of them until they are delivered. If you transport dangerous goods that have a UN dangerous goods code, or that your carrier considers to be dangerous, you must complete a dangerous goods declaration. Part of this declaration is the Dangerous Goods Note.

For the rail transport of dangerous goods, Annex I of COTIF - ie the Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID), sets the conditions under which rail transport is undertaken, including:

• classification of dangerous goods
• dangerous goods lists and any special provisions or exemptions
• testing and use of packaging, intermediate bulk containers, large packaging and tanks
• procedures relating to the consignment
• conditions concerning the conditions of carriage, loading, unloading and handling

Related articles

• Introduction to International Transport;
• Assessing your transport needs for international trade;
• Using sea transport for international trade;
• Using air transport for international trade;
• Using road transport for international trade;
• Choosing and managing a freight forwarder.