E-commerce giant Amazon has made a significant innovation in its logistics operations, starting to transport packages between Paris and Lyon with high-speed TGV trains as of 2025. The company's goal is to transport XNUMX packages per year via this route. More than 500.000 products, that is, approximately per day 1.500 packages to send.
This new delivery method uses dedicated cargo compartments instead of passenger areas. This way, passengers’ comfort or safety is not affected in any way, while ensuring an efficient logistics operation. Unlike similar practices in Japan, Amazon’s new system keeps shipments completely separate from the public area.
Significant Reduction in Delivery Times
Amazon’s move to rail means a dramatic reduction in delivery times. The Paris-Lyon journey, which takes around eight hours by road, is now reduced by TGV trains. under two and a half hours This speed advantage is of great importance, especially in meeting fast delivery demands.
Environmentally Friendly Logistics Move
This strategic move also supports Amazon’s ambitious climate goals. Rail transport has a significantly lower carbon footprint than traditional road transport, providing Amazon with a more sustainable alternative by reducing CO₂ emissions across its logistics operations across Europe.
Sustainable Logistics Collaboration with SNCF
Amazon’s innovative project is being made possible thanks to a partnership with Rail Logistics Europe, the logistics division of French railway company SNCF. This partnership allows Amazon to transport large package volumes with fewer emissions. This step is also in line with Amazon’s goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
The Paris-Lyon route is active six days a week, maximising both speed and efficiency. Each train service helps reduce truck traffic on the road, relieve road congestion and therefore reduce environmental impact.
Amazon's Rail Strategy Could Spread Across Europe
The successful Paris-Lyon model could potentially be expanded to other high-speed rail routes in the future, with Amazon already having long-term plans to increase the use of rail and sea transport across the continent.
This strategic partnership provides significant benefits for both parties, with Amazon benefiting from the reliability and scalability offered by rail, while SNCF gains revenue from idle train capacity by entering the e-commerce logistics sector.
Amazon’s new rail strategy is a prime example of how high-speed trains can be integrated into modern logistics solutions, both in terms of speed and sustainability. As green logistics becomes increasingly important in the industry, it seems likely that other major retailers will follow suit.
