10 biggest challenges in European road transport (and how to solve them)

In this guide, we provide an overview of the 10 biggest challenges in European road transport and concrete suggestions on how to successfully overcome them.

Road transport is the backbone of European logistics. According to Eurostat , more than 75% of all land freight in Europe is transported by truck. This makes road transport a key part of the economy, but also a sector that is exposed to constant challenges.

From rising fuel prices and driver shortages to increasingly stringent EU regulations and sustainability requirements, road transport is going through a period of significant change. For freight forwarders, carriers and companies that rely on road transport, understanding the main problems, as well as possible solutions, is crucial.

10 Biggest Challenges in European Road Transport

1. Rising fuel and energy prices

Fuel accounts for up to 30% of a carrier’s total costs , and sudden price changes make planning difficult and create uncertainty. With rising energy prices, many carriers are struggling to maintain profitability.

Solutions:

• investing in vehicles with lower consumption, LNG or electric vehicles,
• use of route optimization software to reduce kilometers and empty trips,
• negotiation of long-term fuel supply contracts.

Read more about green solutions in: Green Logistics: How companies are reducing their carbon footprint.

2. Driver shortage

There is currently a shortage of more than 500,000 truck drivers in the EU, and the problem is getting worse as many approach retirement. The job of a driver is often seen as difficult and stressful, with long working hours and poor conditions, which deters younger generations.

Solutions:

• improving working conditions and wages,
• investing in education and attracting younger drivers,
• digitalization of administration to reduce the paperwork burden on drivers.

3. Strict EU regulations and compliance

The European Mobility Package brought a series of new rules on drivers’ working hours, cabotage and working conditions. While they aim to create a fairer market, they have brought additional administrative costs and the risk of fines for hauliers.

Solutions:

• regular monitoring of new regulations,
• cooperation with platforms that automatically monitor compliance,
• training of drivers and administrative staff.

Read more about these regulations in: New EU transport regulation 2025 .

4. Sustainability and pressure to reduce emissions

Road transport is one of the largest sources of CO₂ in Europe. Customers and regulators are increasingly demanding that carbon footprints be reduced, and companies that do not adapt risk losing competitiveness.

Solutions:

• transition to electric and hybrid trucks,
• introduction of eco-driving and vehicle maintenance to reduce consumption,
• combination of road and rail transport (intermodal).

5. Traffic jams and poor infrastructure

European metropolises are increasingly facing congestion, while Eastern Europe lacks modern roads and highways. This means delays, more fuel consumption and higher costs.

Solutions:

• using real-time traffic data,
• organization of deliveries at night or off-peak hours,
• investments in infrastructure through EU funds.

6. Border delays and customs procedures

Brexit has shown how much border controls can slow down logistics. Although there are no customs barriers within the EU, transport to external markets often means hours of waiting.

Solutions:

• digitalization of customs documents,
• cooperation with experienced freight forwarders who know the procedures,
• using platforms to track the status of shipments.

Related: The role and importance of freight forwarders in the international transport of goods .

7. Digital transformation (or lack thereof)

Many transport companies still operate using paper, faxes and phone calls. This leads to inefficiency, errors and higher costs.

Solutions:

• introduction of a transport management system (TMS),
• digital platforms that connect freight forwarders and carriers,
• automation of invoicing and documentation.

HUBBIG offers just such a digital link for more efficient collaboration.

8. Competitive and price pressure

The road transport market is extremely competitive. Small carriers have a hard time keeping up with the prices of the big players, while margins are often very low.

Solutions:

• providing additional services (real-time monitoring, flexibility),
• building long-term partnerships instead of working exclusively through the spot market,
• focus on niche segments where competition is lower.

10. Last-mile delivery challenges

E-commerce and urban deliveries have brought new problems: traffic restrictions, low-emission zones and expensive last-mile delivery costs.

Solutions:

• use of micro-distribution centers in cities,
• switching to electric delivery vehicles and cargo bikes,
• cooperation with local partners.

FAQ: Challenges in European road transport

Q: What is the biggest challenge in road transport today?
A: Driver shortages and sustainability pressures are the most significant issues at the moment.

Q: How can carriers reduce costs?
A: By optimizing routes, consolidating shipments, and investing in more energy-efficient vehicles.

Q: Will road transport remain dominant in Europe?
A: Yes, but intermodal solutions (a combination of road and rail) will be increasingly important.

Q: How can HUBBIG help?
A: HUBBIG connects freight forwarders and carriers on one digital platform, reducing costs and speeding up processes.

Conclusion

Road transport in Europe is going through a period of intense change. The pressures are great — from rising costs and driver shortages to new regulations and sustainability requirements. However, with the right strategies, these challenges can also become opportunities for growth.

Companies that invest in digitalization, sustainability, and quality partnerships will find it easier to adapt to the future of transportation.

👉 HUBBIG helps freight forwarders and carriers to better connect, digitize their business, and reduce risks in their daily work. Find more information at hubbig.com