The Port of Rotterdam recorded a 0.9% increase in total cargo throughput during the first nine months of 2026, reaching 323.2 million tonnes.
Container throughput remained largely stable, rising by 0.1% in TEU compared with the same period last year. However, container volumes measured in tonnes declined by 2.2%.
The figures also showed a sharp decline in transshipment activity, while container traffic to and from the European hinterland continued to grow.
Transshipment falls as hinterland traffic increases
Container transshipment at Rotterdam fell by 20% during the nine-month period.
According to the Port of Rotterdam Authority, capacity constraints at deep-sea terminals have led to more cargo being handled through other ports. This has created additional space for containers moving to and from the hinterland.
Hinterland container volumes increased by 7.2%, supported by an 8.9% rise in full container imports. Full container exports also grew, although at a slower rate of 1%.
As imports increased faster than exports, the movement of empty containers continued to rise.
Bulk cargo supports overall growth
Dry bulk throughput increased by 2.1%, supported by higher coal volumes and demand for construction materials. Coal throughput rose by 15.3%, while iron ore and scrap declined by 5.9%.
Liquid bulk volumes grew by 3.1%. Crude oil throughput increased by 2.1%, while mineral oil products recorded growth of 11.1%.
LNG throughput edged down by 0.2%, while breakbulk volumes fell by 1.4%.
Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam Authority, highlighted the importance of reliable transport connections as European trade flows continue to change.
“Reliable infrastructure is the basis for economic growth and a resilient supply chain,” said Siemons.
The port authority stressed the need for continued investment in road, rail and inland waterway connections to support European trade and improve supply chain resilience.
