Channel Tunnel Truck Traffic Rose in September
Freight volumes increased as rising diesel costs bolstered the competitive edge of electric-powered shuttle trains.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Transportation
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LeShuttle Freight carried 102,014 trucks in September 2026, marking an 8% increase in traffic. This growth occurred as passenger vehicle traffic for Getlink reached 197,717 for the same period.
Why it matters
Rising diesel prices, which climbed 38% since the start of 2026, have pushed ferry operators to increase fares, making the electric-powered Channel Tunnel shuttles a more attractive option for freight logistics.
LeShuttle Freight recorded 102,014 truck crossings in September, contributing to a year-to-date total of 883,789. Meanwhile, average diesel prices hit 199.52p per litre during the week of 5 October 2026.
The players
Getlink
Getlink is the public company that operates the Channel Tunnel and LeShuttle services.
The details
LeShuttle trains operate on electricity, providing a distinct cost advantage over ferry services that burn increasingly expensive marine fuel. The company, which held a 35.8% market share in the first half of 2026, is now preparing to implement new pricing tools and unbundled offers in the final quarter of the year.
Timeline
September 2026: Truck traffic increased by 8%.
October 5, 2026: Average diesel price reached 199.52p per litre.
October 22, 2026: Getlink publishes third-quarter results.
November 6, 2026: Getlink publishes October traffic data.
Market Landscape
This traffic growth reflects a shift in logistics demand driven by the regulatory and cost environment surrounding the EU's Entry/Exit System. Getlink is leveraging its electric infrastructure to gain share against traditional fuel-reliant competitors.
The shift toward rail freight may help stabilize shipping costs for businesses reliant on cross-channel transport. However, customers should expect continued pricing volatility as fuel costs fluctuate and new pricing tools are introduced later this year.
The takeaway
Logistics managers should monitor diesel price trends as a leading indicator for cross-channel shipping rates. Companies that rely on the Channel Tunnel may benefit from reviewing new pricing structures expected in the fourth quarter.
What happens next
Getlink is scheduled to publish its third-quarter financial results on 22 October 2026, followed by the release of October traffic data on 6 November 2026.
Further reading
For more on the changing landscape of cross-border logistics, visit our Transportation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Trans.
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