What’s happening?

Below are a few of the key infrastructure projects that could influence transport routes and delivery schedules for companies operating across Europe:

Lower Thames Crossing (UK)

  • Start of construction: Expected in 2025
  • Estimated completion: Early 2030s

The UK is investing in the £9 billion Lower Thames Crossing — a 23-kilometer tunnel beneath the River Thames, designed to reduce pressure on the heavily congested Dartford Crossing. Once completed, it will create a faster freight route from the Port of Dover and London to the north of England. Construction is set to begin in 2025, pending final approvals.

Fehmarn belt fixed link (Denmark–Germany)

  • Construction began: 2020
  • Estimated completion: 2029

Set to become the world’s longest immersed road and rail tunnel, the Fehmarn Belt project will connect Denmark and Germany and dramatically shorten travel time for goods moving between Scandinavia and Central Europe. Once opened, the 18-kilometer tunnel will cut ferry travel down from 45 minutes to just 10 minutes by car or truck.

Brenner base tunnel (Austria–Italy)

  • Construction began: 2008
  • Estimated completion: 2032

The Brenner Base Tunnel is a key project in the EU’s strategy to reduce road freight through the Alps by shifting it to rail. While still under construction, the project is already influencing planning and logistics in the region. Once open, it will enable faster and more environmentally friendly freight routes between Austria and Italy.

Rail Baltica (Baltic States–Poland)

  • Construction ongoing
  • Expected phased openings: 2028–2030

The Rail Baltica project aims to connect Poland with Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia via a new high-speed rail network. Though still under construction, it’s already reshaping future logistics planning in Northern and Eastern Europe, with opportunities for more multimodal transport chains.

Strait of Messina bridge (Italy)

  • Construction start: Planned for summer 2024
  • Estimated completion: 2032

Italy has revived its ambitious plans to construct the world’s longest suspension bridge, connecting mainland Italy with Sicily. The Strait of Messina Bridge, if completed, could enhance road transport in the south and provide a fixed link for trucks that currently rely on ferry services.

What does this mean for our clients?

While some of these projects are long-term, their impact is already being felt in route planning and traffic patterns. At vidaXL Forwarding, we:

  • Track infrastructure developments to avoid delays and plan efficient routes.
  • Adapt delivery schedules as needed to stay compliant and timely.
  • Explore new opportunities for quicker and more sustainable delivery options.

Our planners are always looking ahead to keep your goods moving — no matter what changes lie ahead.

Got questions about how these projects might affect your deliveries? Feel free to reach out to our transport team. We’re happy to help.