Freight ship

The transport of goods on inland waterways is carried out by vessels built in accordance with the technical requirements laid down in Directive (EU) 2016/1629 and subsequently transposed into national law in Luxembourg.

Transport of goods

Inland waterway transport is a cost-effective, particularly safe and environmentally friendly solution for the transport of bulk goods.

Shipping remains the most resource-conserving and environmentally friendly mode of transport. On average, shipping requires 67% less energy to transport heavy parcels than lorries and 35% less than rail.

In terms of CO2 emissions, shipping is in the lead. It turns out that a truck produces 164 grams of CO2 per tonne-kilometre, rail 48.1 grams and shipping only 33.4 grams.

Inland waterways can make a significant contribution to a sustainable transport system by reducing road congestion and the noise pollution associated with other modes of transport.

The law of 21 April 1993 provides a framework for access to the profession of goods transport operator on inland waterways.

Issuing technical certificates for inland navigation

In order to ensure a high level of safety in inland navigation and thus also protect the environment and the people on board, a ship operating on EU inland waterways must have an EU inland navigation certificate and an authorisation certificate, which may also permit the transport of dangerous goods.