The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has allocated €4.833 million under the Modal Shift Scheme 2025, aimed at facilitating the transition of freight transport from road to inland waterways. This initiative seeks to reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and improve the environmental impact of logistics.

Who Can Apply?

The subsidy is available to shippers and freight forwarders presenting concrete proposals to shift cargo from road to water. Eligible transport routes include:

  • Corridor East: Rotterdam to Germany via Arnhem-Nijmegen
  • Corridor South-East: Rotterdam to Germany via Venlo
  • Corridor South: Amsterdam to Antwerp

Subsidy Details

  • Amount: Up to €20 per container (or bulk equivalent) permanently shifted from road to water.
  • Purpose: To offset additional transport costs, such as container handling in inland waterways.

Application Process

Applications opened on 1 January 2025 and are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested parties should apply through Connekt, the implementing agency, via the official application form.

Benefits of the Scheme

  • Reduces pressure on congested road networks.
  • Enhances urban and industrial accessibility in the Randstad.
  • Improves road safety and promotes environmental sustainability.

For further details, visit the Modal Shift Scheme webpage.