A new block train solution of Maersk will cut transit times for Finnish and Northern Swedish import and export cargo significantly compared to conventional feeder usage via the Baltic Sea
Maersk has launched a new block train solution between Haparanda, on the Swedish–Finnish border, and APM Terminals Gothenburg, giving businesses in Finland and Northern Sweden a fast, reliable and low-emission gateway to global ocean networks all year round. The whole Northern region on both sides of the border is home to several key industries like steel, forest, pulp and paper production which will all directly benefit from shorter transit times and more reliable connectivity.
For instance, compared to cargo travelling on traditional routes from Oulu/Finland to Asia, the new rail solution is expected to cut the total transit time by eight days.
The first train is scheduled for 5 November, and the connection starts with two weekly roundtrips on the route APM Terminals Gothenburg – Haparanda – APM Terminals Gothenburg. Maersk plans to increase the frequency to four and later to six weekly roundtrips.
Another benefit specially in winter: customers are no longer exposed to ice-related delays in the Northern Baltic Sea. The rail offering also bypasses port-related vessel and crane bottlenecks, removing key sources of uncertainty from the transport chain.
The solution has also been designed with decarbonisation in mind: the long-haul leg runs on electric rail, while truck or rail can be used for the last mile to the customer’s door.
Through APM Terminals Gothenburg, the rail connection links directly into international shipping services, especially Maersk’s reliable Gemini East-West Ocean Network. Three mainliner services calling the Port of Gothenburg, including direct connections to Asia, secure seamless onward reach to markets worldwide.
“The new rail solution will benefit the Finnish and Swedish economies, as it will not only accelerate cargo significantly but also remove uncertainties in the transport chain, especially in wintertime. The Gothenburg–Haparanda block train is another example of how Maersk is facilitating trade while building more robust and resilient supply chains for its customers,” said Kenni H.S. Callesen Maersk Area Managing Director Nordics.
The launch comes as trade in both Nordic countries is gaining momentum. According to preliminary figures from Finnish Customs, the value of Finland’s goods exports rose by 11.5 percent year-on-year in January–August 2026, with export volumes up 3.3 percent, while the value of imports grew by 16.6 percent. In August alone, Finnish goods exports increased by 22 percent (value) or 9.5 percent (volume) year-on-year, with similar strong numbers for import value and volumes.
Sweden shows a similar trend. Statistics Sweden reports that the value of Swedish goods exports increased by 4 percent and imports by 8 percent in January–August 2026 compared with the same period in 2025.