BARRIERS IN ROAD TRANSPORT IN EUROPE AND THE DESTABILIZING IMPACT OF THE INITIAL PHASE OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Grzegorz MAZURKIEWICZ
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, especially in its early stages, significantly disrupted international road freight transport in the European Union. This article reviews events between March and June 2020, focusing on the immediate consequences of new restrictions and border controls. Drawing on publicly available data from Eurostat, EU reports, and industry sources, the paper presents the responses of different Member States and the logistical challenges that emerged. The results show that delays at border crossings, inconsistent national policies, and limited crisis coordination had a measurable impact on transport performance. Smaller logistics companies were particularly vulnerable, often lacking the resources to adapt to rapidly changing conditions. The article outlines the actions taken by Member States, their consequences for transport companies and the functioning of supply chains, and identifies areas where systemic improvements are needed. The pandemic was, of course, an unpredictable shock to the global economy, but it also exposed existing gaps in infrastructure, planning, and communication. The experience gained should lead to improvements in how cross-border transport is managed during crises.
Pages: 85 - 97