Daily volumes exceed one million parcels, around 60% more than on an average working day during the rest of the year. On standard weekdays, around 600,000 parcels are distributed across Switzerland. For the 2025 Christmas season, parcel volumes are expected to remain at a comparable level to 2024.
Preparation for the seasonal peak starts well in advance. Swiss Post expands staffing levels, extends operating hours at mail and parcel centres, adds delivery routes and increases transport capacity. Investments over recent years in new and expanded parcel centres have also increased throughput capacity. Rail plays a central role in these operations, with approximately every second parcel transported partly by train.
During the Christmas period, rail capacity is reinforced through longer trains and the leasing of additional rail wagons. Since mid-December, SBB Cargo Switzerland has been operating extra block trains for Swiss Post, including services between Geneva and Härkingen and onward to Cadenazzo. These services are intended to absorb the higher seasonal volumes and stabilise transport flows across the network.
Rail transport is closely integrated into Swiss Post’s logistics system. Major logistics sites are directly connected to the rail network, while the three largest parcel centres are equipped with dedicated terminals for container handling. Mail centres are served by ramp tracks that allow trains to enter directly from the main line, reducing handling time and improving operational flexibility.
The increased use of rail is linked to Swiss Post’s long-term transport strategy, often referred to internally as the “Railway Offensive”. The programme focuses on shifting suitable transport flows from road to rail, particularly on high-volume east–west and north–south corridors. Measures include improvements to infrastructure, faster shunting operations, more frequent connections and streamlined processes.
Despite an overall decline in the transport market, Swiss Post has increased its rail transport performance by more than 20% in recent years. Cooperation with SBB Cargo Switzerland continues to focus on improving transit times and operational efficiency, particularly during periods of peak demand such as the Christmas season.
