Have you ever wondered how much freight is transported across the British railway network every year? No, we hadn’t given it a second thought here at Smart Directions HQ. However, it’s worth noting that in the year ending March 2022, over 78 million tonnes of freight was transported this way, valued at a staggering £30bn.
But – in the age of multimodal transport, aviation fuel reformation and calls for net zero within the logistics sector, what part has rail played in our past, and what role will it have in our future?
What’s the history?
The first steam locomotive was built in 1804, but it wasn’t until 1825 that George Stephenson opened the first steam powered passenger railway. Since then, we’ve relied on the Great British Railway to move people and products from place to place in a timely and efficient manner. For over 200 years, it’s been at the heart of the British supply chain. So, are things moving forward?
All change!
In the final quarter of 2023 alone, we saw an increase of 4% on the previous year. What does that mean? Not only is it good for the economy, but it’s also a great way of reducing carbon emissions, as well as being a reliable way of reducing the number of vehicles on the road. Did you know that a single freight train can replace 76 lorries?! According to Network Rail, rail freight is going from strength to strength, with more businesses choosing to switch from road and air.
Rail freight companies are in for the win!
Currently, there are no plans to nationalise rail freight companies. The Labour Government has announced its intentions to allow open access operators to continue as is, whilst also leaving rolling stock companies in the private sphere. Obviously, it just needs to win in the forthcoming election (we’re keeping our opinions to ourselves here!).
But what does it mean?
This decision highlights not only the huge economic potential of rail freight, but also the significant strides being made to achieve longer term growth targets within the sector.
Could rail freight play a part in your logistic solution?
At Smart Directions, it’s important to us that we’re able to offer our customers the most efficient transport service for their goods, at the most affordable prices. We work with businesses like yours to keep things profitable and in progress. We work with clients of all sizes and across all sectors to provide a reliable and trustworthy service. Did you know that we provide 24/7 365 tracking? Ask about our services through our online contact form, email us at sales@smartdirections.co.uk or give us a call on 01442 507 240.