New transport solution for non-craneable semi-trailers

The ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) is upgrading the TransFER Wels–Vienna–Budapest to facilitate the transport of non-craneable semi-trailers. This will enable the RCG to promote modal shift and further strengthen intermodal transport.

What has already been in operation for the TransFER GenkCurtici for some time is now also possible on the TransFER WelsViennaBudapest: from now on, it will be possible to transport not only containers, swap bodies and cranable trailers but also non-cranable semi-trailers (‘normal’ trailers) with this TransFER. With three round trips per week, the TransFER offers a non-stop connection between the Austrian terminals in Wels and Vienna South and the BILK terminal in Hungary. It therefore 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 are now craneable thanks to r2L

Thanks to the use of r2L handling technology, non-craneable semi-trailers of all types can be loaded and handled efficiently at terminals. The trailer is placed on a special platform, which is then lifted onto the wagon by a crane. The ease with which this platform can be handled means that semi-trailers can be transferred quickly and safely at the terminal without the need for additional ramps or other equipment. Loading time at each hub is estimated at just five to eight minutes. This allows for precise and safe loading and unloading with minimum manpower - a simple and flexible solution that is now also available for TransFER WelsViennaBudapest and makes it much easier for transport companies to make the switch to rail.

Logistical and economic benefits

The upgrade to the TransFER connection to include non-craneable semi-trailers offers transport companies numerous logistical and economic benefits. Tolls and fuel costs are eliminated, for example, enabling the RCG to offer a competitive rate compared to road transport. On top of this, first and last mile transport by road allows for a higher total weight, which further increases efficiency – both attractive factors in favour of a shift to rail.

Boosting intermodal transport and the modal shift

With the upgrade to the TransFER WelsViennaBudapest to allow for the transport of non-craneable semi-trailers, the RCG is continuing to drive forward the modal shift – in other words, the transition of freight transport from road to rail. This development offers customers environmentally friendly and at the same time economically attractive rail transport solutions.

TransFER Wels–Vienna–Budapest

21.10.2024