Transport to Sweden: What You Need to Know

Freight transport between Poland and Sweden is a key element of trade relations between these countries, reflecting both their geographical proximity and strong economic ties. Transport on this route is particularly significant for the export of Polish goods to Sweden and the import of raw materials and technology to Poland. Due to the specifics of the market and logistical requirements, road-sea transport is the dominant mode of freight, offering efficient handling of goods across the Baltic Sea routes.

Polish transport companies operating in Sweden handle goods worth approximately 31,150.1 million PLN annually, while transport from Sweden to Poland generates a value of approximately 16,381.4 million PLN.

The most commonly used solution is transport by trucks and trailers, which cross the Baltic Sea using ferries connecting Polish ports, such as Gdynia, Gdańsk, and Świnoujście, with Swedish ports, including Karlskrona, Ystad, and Trelleborg. Thanks to frequent ferry crossings that ensure regular deliveries, Polish logistics companies can handle both full truckload (FTL) and less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments. Statistics from 2022 show that approximately 70% of the total freight volume between Poland and Sweden was transported via this method. The popularity of road-sea transport stems from its efficiency, flexibility regarding cargo types, and relatively short transit times.

Poland exports various goods to Sweden, including furniture, household appliances, machinery, industrial equipment, and food products. For instance, Polish furniture enjoys significant demand in the Swedish market, making Sweden one of the most important recipients of these products. In 2021, the value of Polish furniture exports to Sweden exceeded 1 billion euros. Another important product group includes agricultural and food products, such as fruits, vegetables, and processed foods. Thanks to modern logistics solutions like refrigerated containers, it is possible to transport fruits and vegetables under controlled temperatures, ensuring their freshness at every stage of delivery.

Sweden, in turn, exports technological products, chemical goods, machinery, and natural resources, such as wood and metals, to Poland. The transport of wood, one of Sweden's key export products, is mainly carried out by sea in containers or on platforms designed for bulk goods. Notably, Sweden is one of the leading suppliers of high-quality sawn timber to the Polish market, widely used in construction and furniture manufacturing. Similarly, steel and metal products, such as sheets or steel structures, are regularly transported between these countries, underscoring the significance of the industrial sector in bilateral trade.

Another important segment of freight transport is rail transport, which, despite a smaller share in total volume, is gaining importance due to the growing emphasis on sustainable development. Rail is mainly used for bulk cargo, such as chemicals, steel, or wood. In Sweden, where environmental care is a priority, rail is increasingly chosen as an alternative to road transport. Thanks to the modernization of rail infrastructure and the development of intermodal connections, it is now possible to efficiently combine rail with road and sea transport, boosting its competitiveness.

Container transport plays a vital role in freight between Poland and Sweden, allowing for the transport of various products, from industrial goods to food items. Modern refrigerated containers enable the shipment of temperature-sensitive goods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, or meat. For example, Polish blueberries and apples reach Swedish store shelves in perfect condition thanks to temperatures maintained at 0–4°C throughout the journey. Technologies like Controlled Atmosphere (CA) or Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP) further extend the freshness of these products, which is particularly crucial in the demanding Swedish market.

Air transport between Poland and Sweden, despite its higher costs, is used for high-value goods and shipments requiring fast delivery. This primarily includes electronics, spare machine parts, or specialized medical equipment. In 2022, air transport accounted for about 5% of the total trade volume between these countries, with the main airports handling this type of transport being Warsaw (Okęcie) and Stockholm (Arlanda).

The growing e-commerce trade also impacts the development of freight transport between Poland and Sweden. Swedish consumers increasingly order Polish products online, boosting demand for fast and reliable parcel deliveries. Logistics companies are expanding courier services and transshipment warehouses to optimize logistics processes in less-than-truckload transport. Meanwhile, Polish businesses take advantage of e-commerce growth by exporting products directly to Swedish customers, strengthening their position in this market.

Investments in transport infrastructure in both Poland and Sweden are crucial for improving freight operations between these countries. In Poland, roads leading to seaports are being modernized, shortening delivery times to terminals. Meanwhile, Sweden is enhancing its ports and rail infrastructure, focusing on sustainable logistics solutions. The development of intermodal connections that combine different types of transport allows for more efficient supply chain management and minimizes the environmental impact of transport.

The total value of trade between Poland and Sweden in 2022 exceeded 15 billion euros, demonstrating the dynamic growth of economic relations. Polish exports to Sweden amounted to approximately 9 billion euros, while imports from Sweden reached 6 billion euros. Key sectors include industry, agriculture, technology, and construction. Thanks to well-developed logistics infrastructure and close trade relations, both countries benefit from the growing demand for efficient and eco-friendly freight transport.

Thus, transport to Sweden is gaining increasing interest among both businesses and individual customers. Sweden is a key trade partner for Poland, and Poland-Sweden transport plays a vital role in international trade. Freight companies offer a wide range of services tailored to various customer needs, including full truckload, less-than-truckload, and express shipping. Knowing the key aspects of Sweden transport organization ensures that the process runs quickly, safely, and efficiently.

One of the fundamental elements when planning transport to Sweden is choosing the right mode of transport. For Poland-Sweden routes, road transport is especially popular. The main communication routes include those running through Germany and Denmark, where bridges connecting Denmark and Sweden, such as the Öresund Bridge, are utilized. An alternative is ferry crossings, which shorten travel time and reduce driver fatigue. Carriers specializing in Poland-Sweden transport often combine both options to optimize costs and delivery times.

Sweden transport includes both standard cargo and specialized freight, such as refrigerated transport for temperature-controlled goods or ADR transport for hazardous materials. With well-developed logistics infrastructure and modern vehicle fleets, freight companies ensure timely and safe delivery. Tailoring services to customer requirements is also crucial – Poland-Sweden transport often involves "door-to-door" services, meaning delivery directly to the recipient's specified address.

When planning transport to Sweden, it is important to consider customs regulations and formalities related to shipping goods to the Scandinavian market. Although Sweden is an EU member, there are specific regulations for certain products, such as food, alcohol, or medical items. Companies specializing in Sweden transport often provide support with customs clearance and logistical advice, helping to avoid potential delays and documentation issues.

The cost of Poland-Sweden transport depends on various factors, such as cargo type, distance, execution time, and the chosen route. For regular shipments, businesses can benefit from more favorable rates, making transport to Sweden even more cost-effective. With an increasing number of carriers operating on this route, clients have access to competitive offers and flexible logistical solutions.

Sweden transport is also an excellent option for individual customers planning international moves or the shipment of goods with unusual dimensions. Many freight companies offer relocation services, providing not only transport but also loading, unloading, and securing property during transit.

Taking all of this into account, transport to Scandinavia, including transport to Sweden, is a versatile service tailored to the needs of both companies and private individuals. Regardless of the type of cargo, selecting the right carrier and planning the route are crucial for timely and safe delivery. Poland-Sweden transport is one of the most important segments of international logistics, making it worthwhile to use professional companies that guarantee reliability, competitive prices, and comprehensive service.