05/08/2026
🌊 23 centimetres at the Kaub gauge
Today, the Kaub gauge stands at just 23 centimetres. This marks the lowest level since measurements began in 1905.
The gauge reading does not represent the actual depth of the Rhine. However, it is a key reference for inland shipping and determines how much cargo a barge can safely carry.
As water levels fall, cargo capacity decreases significantly. Transporting the same volume of goods requires more barges or additional rail and road capacity. At the same time, available barge capacity becomes scarcer and more expensive.
Low water does not automatically mean that shipping is suspended. At a certain point, however, inland waterway transport becomes increasingly difficult to operate economically.
For Switzerland, the Rhine is a vital connection to the seaports of Rotterdam and Antwerp. Disruptions can lead to lower capacity, longer transit times and higher costs. These effects can be felt throughout the entire supply chain, from industry and trade to consumers.
At Swissterminal, we combine barge, rail, road, terminal and warehouse services to create flexible logistics solutions.
One move ahead, even when the Rhine leaves less room to manoeuvre.
