New products strengthen ÖBB Rail Cargo Group's European network 



(Vienna, 17 October 2024) – ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) continues to drive the modal shift to rail with new products in its portfolio. In October, ÖBB's freight subsidiary launches the new TransFER Budapest–Zeebrugge with one round trip, connecting important hubs in Hungary and Belgium for intermodal flows of goods. With three planned round trips per week, RCG transports all craneable loading units, including 20, 30, 40 and 45-foot containers as well as 25 and 45-foot swap bodies. In addition, the safe transport of dangerous goods in accordance with the RID guidelines is possible. From the port of Zeebrugge, one of Belgium's most important seaports, there are ship connections to Tilbury, Hull, Teesport, editorLondon and other major destinations in the UK. In addition, the TransFER offers antenna connections to and from Turkey from the modern and large BILK terminal in Budapest – the central gateway to Southeastern Europe.

New: TransFER Wels–Lübeck–Kiel with comprehensive all-round service


The new TransFER Wels–Lübeck–Kiel operates four round trips per week between the logistics centre Wels and the Port of Lübeck, one of Germany's largest Baltic Sea ports. While Wels, as a central European logistics hub, enables the distribution of flows of goods in all directions within Europe, Lübeck is an important transhipment centre for rail freight to the Scandinavian and Baltic markets and beyond. As an extension of the logistics chain to Northern Europe, the TransFER is operated three times a week from Lübeck to Kiel.


Goods of all kinds can be transported in conventional wagonloads as single wagons or wagon groups, as well as in intermodal containers such as 20, 30, 40 and 45-foot containers, 25 and 45-foot swap bodies and craneable trailers. Comprehensive end-to-end logistics solutions from a single source – such as the organisation of first and last mile and additional forwarding services such as terminal services, handling options, modern warehouse logistics and professional customs clearance – are also part of the service portfolio.

TransFER Wels–Vienna–Budapest: New transport option for non-craneable semi-trailers


What has already been implemented for some time on the TransFER Genk–Curtici is now also possible on the TransFER Wels–Vienna–Budapest: in addition to containers, swap bodies and cranable trailers, non-cranable semi-trailers (‘normal’ trailers) can now also be transported on this TransFER. With three round trips per week, the TransFER offers a non-stop connection between the Austrian terminals Wels and Vienna South and the BILK terminal. It thus builds a bridge between the economic centres of Western Europe and the countries of Southern and Southeastern Europe – and beyond to the Asian part of Turkey.

Non-craneable semi-trailers become craneable thanks to r2L


The use of the so-called r2L handling technology enables all kinds of non-craneable semi-trailers to be efficiently loaded and handled at the terminal. The trailer is placed on a special platform, which is then lifted onto the wagon by crane. The ease of use of this platform allows semi-trailers to be handled quickly and safely at the terminal without the need for additional ramps or other equipment. A loading time of just five to eight minutes is estimated per lift. This ensures precise and safe loading and unloading with minimal manpower. In addition to the logistical benefits, the transport of non-craneable semi-trailers by rail also saves companies on tolls and fuel costs. This allows RCG to offer a more competitive rate compared to road transport. In addition, it allows for higher gross weights on the first and last mile by road, further increasing efficiency – both attractive factors for a shift to rail.

ÖBB Rail Cargo Group: the freight transport division of the ÖBB 

As a leading rail logistics provider in Europe, we are shaping the industry. 365 days a year – 24 hours a day. Across Europe and beyond into Asia. With our presence in 18 countries, we connect people, businesses and markets – from the first to the last mile. It’s thanks to our 5,912 logistics professionals that 419,000 trains a year, respectively 1,150 a day, reach their destinations safe and sound. With our efficient end-to-end logistics services, we transport over 78 million net tonnes of freight each year. Operational management of the Rail Cargo Group lies with Rail Cargo Austria AG. ÖBB Rail Cargo Group's TransNET: https://www.railcargo.com/de/transnet