in this paper, the influence of shadow effect on the accuracy of crack detection in fast motion is studied. Through the finite element simulation analysis, the change of the magnetic field distribution on the rail surface under the trailing effect is explored, and the intensity and sensitivity of the detection signals at different detection positions are compared. By comparing the results, an optimal detection position with high signal strength and sensitivity is determined, and the best probe structure suitable for fast-moving electromagnetic nondestructive testing is proposed. The results show that the probe structure can effectively characterize the crack with a crack depth of more than 1.0mm when the detection speed reaches 20.0m/s, and the relative error and standard deviation are both less than 10%.