ÖBB Rail Cargo Group with new TransFER Belgrade-Rijeka

(Vienna, 30 October 2024) – The ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) has expanded its network through a new direct route between Serbia and Croatia. This connection links two important rail freight hubs and strengthens logistics between the two countries.

The RCG has significantly expanded its position in the Western Balkans over the past few years by implementing strategic measures in the Serbian market. In 2023, a carrier company was established in Belgrade, followed by the launch of a railway shipping company in 2024 in partnership with Transfera d.o.o, one of the leading shipping companies in the Western Balkans. Together, RCG’s rail transport expertise and Transfera’s in-depth market knowledge provide tailored logistics solutions that meet the specific needs of the Serbian market. These include the recent TransFER routes such as Krusevac–Budapest–Duisburg and, more recently, Belgrade–Rijeka.

Direct connectivity to the Serbian freight network

The new TransFER travels between the Nelt container terminal – strategically located in the area around Belgrade and other important industrial centres – and the Adriatic Gate Container Terminal (AGCT) in Rijeka – the largest harbour in Croatia, where over 70% of freight transport to and from Serbia is handled. Through TransFER, Rijeka becomes increasingly important as a central transshipment point for the Serbian market. Through direct connectivity to the Serbian freight network, the RCG can make rail freight transport even more efficient for its customers and reduce transport times. This enables customers to optimise their logistics processes and take advantage of new opportunities in the region.

Freight transport with 100 percent in-house production

TransFER Belgrade–Rijeka is operated by the RCG using in-house traction and makes 1 to 2 round trips per week with a transit time of up to 24 hours. Each train has a capacity of 76 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit) per train, transporting 20-, 40-, and 45-foot containers to support the intermodal flow of goods. In addition to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions compared to road-only transport, TransFER offers further advantages that ensure transparency and predictability: Customers benefit from add-ons including pre-carriage and on-carriage organisation and regular status updates via e-mail.

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.