The transport sector recorded a 4.1 per cent drop in turnover in the first quarter of this year. This was not down to postal and parcel services: they saw their turnover rise to record levels.
The decline in turnover in the transport sector can largely be attributed to branches with passenger transport, reports CBS on the basis of recent figures. This mainly involves the taxi industry and public transport. Aviation and air service providers also felt the impact of travel restrictions, but due to the increased volume of air freight, the drop in turnover here was less significant.
Postal and courier companies were busy due to the closure of all non-essential shops. This industry recorded a 35 per cent increase in turnover compared to the first quarter of 2020.
Inland navigation turnover continues to decline
Turnover in inland shipping fell by more than 6 per cent in the first three months. Inland shippers transported 1.7 percent more freight volume, a total of over 91.5 million tonnes. The drop in turnover is related to freight rates. Service rates for inland shippers fell by almost 7 per cent in the first quarter. Passenger trips on inland waterways were also at a standstill. Among companies in the loading, unloading and transhipment sector, turnover increased by 4.6 per cent. More dry bulk goods and containers were transhipped in particular.
No price rise, but turnover increases
Almost 90 per cent of transport companies do not expect any adjustment in prices in the second quarter of 2021. Aviation is an exception, 46 per cent of companies think rates will increase. Expectations on turnover are different: of all transport companies, 27 per cent expect an increase in turnover, while over 90 per cent of aviation companies expect to achieve more turnover than in the first quarter. 94 per cent of companies expect to employ the same or more people in the second quarter of 2021.
