German transport associations debate use of long-haul trucks

The Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) has rejected the increased use of long-haul trucks as a solution to the limitations caused by low water levels in inland shipping. VDV Managing Director Oliver Wolff stated that such measures do not address the structural problems of freight transport or provide a sustainable, climate-friendly response to growing demands.

Wolff noted that roads are already overburdened and facing structural limits, warning that more heavy trucks could exacerbate issues with bridges and roads in need of renovation. The VDV suggested that heavy and bulk goods should ideally be moved by rail, provided the infrastructure is stable enough to handle high loads.

Conversely, the German Retail Association (HDE) has called for the permanent authorization of long-haul trucks, which can be up to 25.25 meters long. HDE Managing Director Stefan Genth urged the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs to allow these vehicles permanently and expand the permitted transport network to ensure logistics stability.