ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) has introduced a new TransFER route linking Budapest and Zeebrugge, expanding intermodal freight options between Hungary and Belgium. This service aims to streamline the movement of goods between South-Eastern Europe and Western markets.
The BILK terminal in Budapest serves as a central hub, offering extensive capacity and modern infrastructure for container handling. It's a key gateway that connects Eastern Europe with Western destinations.
Zeebrugge, one of Belgium's major seaports, plays a crucial role in intermodal transport due to its numerous shipping connections. Its strategic location allows for efficient transshipment of goods by sea, linking to UK ports such as Tilbury, Hull, Teesport, and London.
Key features of the TransFER Budapest–Zeebrugge include direct A-C connections with attractive transit times and three round trips per week—starting with one round trip in week 43. The service supports all craneable loading units, including various container sizes and swap bodies. It also accommodates the safe transport of dangerous goods in compliance with RID guidelines. Additionally, antenna connections to and from Turkey are available via BILK.
First RCG train operated in the Netherlands under own traction
Another step to strengthen its footprintin Benelux, RCG has integrated the Netherlands into its own traction network. After acquiring Captrain Netherlands in May, RCG's network now spans 14 countries. The Dutch subsidiary recently managed its first international train within RCG.
The intermodal train runs four times a week between Maasvlakte and Linz. The Dutch carrier handles the journey up to the German border at Rheinhausen, where RCG's German carrier takes over until Passau. The final segment to Linz is operated by a partner railway undertaking on behalf of RCG.
This expansion enables RCG to offer international freight services from a single source, connecting economic regions across Western, Central, Southern, and South-Eastern Europe through its extensive traction network.
