As the morning sun illuminates the Taklamakan Desert, trucker Peng Leyi navigates his 18-wheeler along highways that trace ancient trade routes. His cargo of smart appliances from Suzhou represents a modern twist to Silk Road commerce – part of China's growing cross-border trucking network now being called the 'Fourth Channel' for Europe-Asia trade.
This overland logistics revolution, operational since early 2025, delivers Chinese manufactured goods to European markets in 10-15 days – faster than sea transport and more cost-effective than air freight. 'We're the camel drivers of the digital age,' Peng remarked during a border stop in Xinjiang, where his truck joined dozens preparing for international hauls.
The network connects 35 Chinese cities with 49 European destinations through coordinated customs systems and satellite-tracked convoys. While rail remains vital for bulk shipments, industry analysts note trucking's growing role in just-in-time deliveries for Europe's tech and manufacturing sectors.
As China strengthens overland trade corridors this year, this modern caravan system demonstrates how ancient routes continue shaping global commerce – now powered by diesel engines rather than camel caravans.
