FAQ: How are freight shipments organised within Russia?
Indian businesses operating in Russia need to know their freight transport options. Below, you’ll find an overview of key means of transport and their suitability for various goods.
Rail transport
Railways intersect Russia’s vast terrain and are ideal for heavy and bulk cargoes like coal, timber, and grain. Rail transport is reliable and cost-effective over long distances, connecting major cities and industrial hubs.
Major container operators covering the extensive Russian network include RZD Logistics, FESCO, TransContainer, and GlobalTrans (website in Russian only).
Road transport
Road haulage offers a flexible option over shorter distances and for last-mile delivery, and is a particularly good option for handling perishable goods, electronics, and small batches. It is widely used in urban areas and complements other methods of freight transport.
Leading companies such as Delovye Linii (website in Russian only), ITECO, PEK (website in Russian only), and Baikal Service (website in Russian only) offer reliable nationwide trucking services.
Toll roads in Russia
The Platon Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system collects toll charges for vehicles exceeding 12 tons in gross weight on all 50,774 kilometres of Russian federal highway. As of May 2025, the charge is 3.34 RUB per kilometre.
Single toll tickets are ideal for occasional trips and are issued through the Platon website, app, or call centre. Transponders, available from Platon service centres and partners, are handy for regular hauls.
Air freight
Air freight is the perfect solution for transporting time-sensitive, high-value goods (e.g. pharmaceuticals and tech products). Though expensive, it is the fastest option, serving remote regions via major airports.
Aeroflot Cargo, Volga-Dnepr, and AirBridgeCargo are the top players operating out of major airports.
River transport
River shipping, using extensive waterways like the Volga, suits oversized or liquid cargoes such as oil and construction materials. It operates on a seasonal basis, mainly in the warmer months, and is cost-efficient for specific routes.
Express delivery
Express services cater to urgent shipments such as documents or high-value items (e.g. jewellery). Taking advantage of Russia’s road and air networks, they ensure quick delivery across the country.
CDEK offers delivery with tracking and door-to-door service options. Aeroflot Cargo excels in fast air courier services by leveraging its extensive flight network. Boxberry (website in Russian only) offers e-commerce deliveries across Russia and the CIS.
Small batch delivery
Small consignments, such as spare parts or samples, are best moved by road or express services that are cheaper and more flexible than bulk methods.
How Sberbank can help
Sberbank India supports freight planning with financial solutions and logistics guidance, ensuring smooth operations in Russia.