As reported by DSV, the gross domestic product (GDP) in the Eurozone in 2024 amounted to 16.406 billion US dollars – representing 14.74 percent of the global economy. Inflation in the Eurozone stabilized at 2.0 percent in July 2025 – exactly at the target level of the European Central Bank (ECB). Energy prices declined, while prices for food and industrial goods slightly increased.
Transport capacity and costs
The capacity index slightly decreased to 93.58 compared to the previous quarter, while the diesel price fell to 1,557.41 euros. According to DSV, the purchasing managers’ index for the manufacturing sector, at 49.8 points in July, still indicates a decline, but it is the slowest since July 2022.
“Spot prices have fallen for the second consecutive quarter, attributed to weaker, more short-term consumer demand, particularly in retail and the automotive industry,” according to DSV. However, in the medium to long term, rising demand could lead to higher freight volumes and rates.
Additionally, operating costs are increasing: maintenance costs for trucks rose by 2.3 percent, and wages in the transport sector increased by 4.5 percent in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year.
Regulatory updates
According to DSV, two regulatory changes are shaping the market:
- ADR 2025: As of July 1, 2025, full compliance with the updated hazardous materials regulations is mandatory. Drivers must carry all required documents in the vehicle, even for transports of limited quantities.
More on the topic: July shake-up in road transport: key changes for hauliers
EU Mobility Package: By August 18, 2025, all vehicles used in international road freight transport had to be retrofitted with Smart Tachograph Version 2 with GPS tracking. From July 1, 2026, this also applies to light commercial vehicles over 2.5 tons.
Additionally, DSV warns of an increase in email fraud targeting road freight transport in Northern Europe.
Integration of Schenker – “more than a merger”
DSV places particular emphasis on the integration of Schenker. Helmut Schweighofer, CEO of DSV Road, explains:
“The integration of Schenker is more than a merger – it is a transformation. We are combining people, systems, and structures to build a unified, agile network that simplifies logistics. With a common mindset and the goal of an integrated IT platform, we reduce complexity while simultaneously enhancing speed, reliability, and transparency.”
Schweighofer emphasizes that it is about making business easier for customers and ensuring smooth supply chains:
“Together, we are winning as ONE – we simplify, align, and accelerate to better serve our customers than ever before.”
By merging two industry leaders, DSV aims to “expand reach, optimize capacities, and set a new benchmark for the industry.”
Biofuels: demand rises, supply becomes limited
Another key theme in the DSV update is the future of biofuels. According to the report, use is rapidly increasing, particularly in aviation, limiting the supply for road freight transport. By 2030, biomass capacity could be utilized up to 80 percent, causing prices to rise.
“Logistics strategies based solely on biofuel could face challenges in the future regarding costs and availability. A diversified energy mix can help address these risks while supporting long-term sustainability goals,” DSV states.
DSV relies exclusively on second-generation biofuels such as HVO100, which are predominantly obtained from residual biomass. However, the available supply is already limited.
