Amazon Expands Short Sea Shipping in Europe for a Greener, Faster Future

According to a recent report from Splash247, Amazon is significantly expanding its use of short sea shipping routes to transport inventory and packages across Europe. The initiative, led by Gulfem Toygar, Amazon’s Country Manager for Sweden, and Helder Velho, EU Vice President of Surface Transportation, aims to make Amazon’s logistics network more efficient, faster, and far less carbon intensive.

Amazon’s Push for Low-Emission Freight Transport

Traditionally, Amazon relied heavily on road and air freight for inter-country transfers, but in 2025, the company is doubling down on maritime logistics. The e-commerce giant now operates over 170 short sea shipping routes across Europe, connecting major logistics hubs in Italy, Spain, Germany, Poland, and Sweden. These sea routes move large volumes of goods between Amazon’s fulfillment centers, helping to reduce overall transportation emissions and congestion on European highways.

Nearly half of Amazon’s warehouse transfers between Italy and Spain are now handled by sea. This shift allows Amazon to avoid approximately 25% of the carbon emissions typically generated by next-day delivery trips in Sweden — a notable step toward achieving its goal of net-zero carbon operations by 2040.

Why Short Sea Shipping Matters

Short sea shipping refers to transporting goods by sea over relatively short distances, often within the same continent. It is one of the most energy-efficient freight transport modes available. Compared to road and air freight, sea transport significantly reduces emissions per ton-kilometer — a crucial factor for sustainability in logistics.

Since launching its first sea routes in Europe in 2019, Amazon has continued to expand its maritime network. In 2025 alone, the company added more than 60 new sea routes, showing a clear commitment to greener supply chain operations. These routes not only reduce emissions but also provide more reliable alternatives during peak road congestion and adverse weather conditions.

A Model for Sustainable Logistics

Amazon’s investment in short sea shipping reflects a broader industry trend toward sustainable logistics and multi-modal transport — using the best combination of sea, rail, and road freight to minimize environmental impact. This approach is especially relevant for Europe, where coastal proximity and dense trade routes make maritime shipping a viable alternative to trucking.

Ports across the continent — including Spain, Italy, and Germany — are seeing growing container activity driven by Amazon and other global retailers seeking cleaner transport options. The focus on short sea shipping is also prompting renewed investment in port infrastructure, container technology, and digital tracking systems to further optimize performance.

Global Goals and Future Outlook

While these initiatives currently focus on Europe, Amazon’s long-term goal is to implement similar programs worldwide. By transitioning to sea-based routes for inter-country freight, the company hopes to significantly lower its global logistics carbon footprint while improving supply chain resilience.

Amazon’s approach aligns with international sustainability movements such as the IMO’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Strategy, which encourages the adoption of low-carbon maritime practices.

Key Takeaway: Sustainability at Scale

Amazon’s growing network of short sea routes is a reminder that even the world’s largest companies can make tangible environmental progress. By integrating short sea shipping into its logistics operations, Amazon is setting a precedent for efficient, sustainable, and forward-thinking global trade.

At YES Containers, we believe the future of logistics depends on smart container use, cleaner transportation, and circular economy principles. Whether for global freight, modular construction, or innovative container homes, sustainable shipping practices pave the way for a greener tomorrow.

Get A Quote today or call 800-223-4755 to learn more about how shipping containers support modern logistics and sustainability goals.