Accounting for around 9% of the EU’s total GDP, Spain has long been one of Europe’s most dynamic economies, and in recent years it has strengthened its position as a strategic hub for manufacturing, agriculture, energy, and automotive production. 

For UK hauliers and businesses looking to diversify or streamline their continental operations, Spain represents one of the biggest growth opportunities right now. UK exports are worth £20.5 billion and Spain is one of the top 10 largest trading partners.

With several ferry routes linking the UK and Spain, Freightlink makes it easier than ever for haulage companies to investigate these sectors and build strong, reliable supply chains across Western Europe.

Agriculture

Agriculture remains one of Spain’s strongest and most export‑driven industries. From fresh produce and horticultural goods to packaged foods and beverages, Spain supplies huge volumes to northern European markets all year‑round.

For UK hauliers, this means consistent and constant demand for temperature‑controlled transport. Spanish exporters need reliable partners who can move goods efficiently across the UK and Ireland, particularly for just in time items like fruit and vegetables.

Brittany Ferries and Finnlines offer direct access to northern Spain, reducing road mileage when taking the longer channel routes and improving delivery times for time‑sensitive goods.

Car Manufacturing

Spain is the second‑largest car manufacturer in the EU and is home to major production hubs for SEAT, Ford, Mercedes‑Benz and Renault. In addition to complete vehicles, the country produces an enormous volume of components, machinery and industrial goods.

Because of this, Spain is a key region for UK businesses supplying specialist parts and engineering equipment. Hauliers benefit from steady outbound and inbound demand.

The ferry routes connecting the UK to the north of Spain between Portsmouth & Santander and Portsmouth & Bilbao provide reliable ferry services, meaning UK haulage companies and manufacturers can access flexible sailing schedules and convenient transit times for deliveries.

Renewable Energy and Green Technology

Spain is one of Europe’s leaders in solar and wind power production due to the favourable weather and external investment. The Spanish government wants the wind turbine electricity contribution to be around 81% by 2030. As both the UK and EU transition towards greener infrastructure, partnerships and procurement across renewable energy supply chains are accelerating.

This investment opens the door to increased cross‑border movement of construction materials, turbine components, electrical systems and specialist equipment.

As a specialist in abnormal load bookings, Freightlink provides an efficient gateway for oversized, project‑based, or mission‑critical freight. Whether it’s transporting large components or supporting ongoing maintenance cycles, access to Spain’s northern ports provides many opportunities for UK logistics businesses and manufacturers.

The Gateway to the Mediterranean

Spain’s geographical position makes it a strategic distribution hub for goods entering and leaving the EU. For UK importers and exporters aiming to reach markets via the Mediterranean Sea such as Italy, Greece and Turkey, establishing Spanish logistics links can be an intelligent long‑term strategy. Especially also considering the growth in North Africa and beyond.

Freightlink for UK–Spain Ferry Routes

Whether you are transporting perishable goods or industrial machinery, vehicle parts or green tech, direct ferry crossings to Spain with Brittany Ferries and Finnlines remain one of the most reliable and cost‑effective ways to access Spain. 

Book your UK ⇄ Spain ferry routes with Freightlink.