The China-Europe freight train "Shanghai Express" is an international service dedicated to transporting high value-added and time-sensitive goods between China and Europe.
In June 2024, Oriental Silk Road started trial operations for the train service. Departing from Shanghai every Saturday, the train links Shanghai with both Asia and Europe, enhancing support for the Belt and Road Initiative.
The China-Europe freight train "Shanghai Express" launches pilot operations. [Photo/WeChat ID: hongqiaoshangwuqu]
The "Shanghai Express" set off on its maiden voyage from Minhang Railway Station on June 8, 2024, en route to Neuss, Düsseldorf, Germany. It completed the journey in roughly 20 days.
In July 2024, the "Shanghai Express" achieved a significant milestone by transporting NIO's unlisted test new energy vehicles to Germany, marking the first export via ATA carnet customs declaration from the Shanghai platform.
By the end of April 2025, Oriental Silk Road had sent the "Shanghai Express" on 39 trips, transporting 250 TEUs of photovoltaic products and 154 TEUs of new energy vehicles valued at a total of more than 120 million yuan ($16.54 million).
Additionally, Oriental Silk Road collaborated with China Post for the first time to transport postal cargo to Europe via the freight train.
This collaboration involved close coordination with customs and postal authorities to enhance information-based supervision of transshipment logistics, thereby streamlining customs clearance processes.
The premium China-Europe freight train "Shanghai Express" sets off on its maiden voyage from Minhang Railway Station. [Photo/WeChat ID: hongqiaoshangwuqu]
