Ten years of TransFER Linz–Antwerp

For ten years, the TransFER Linz–Antwerp operated by ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) has been connecting Austria with the Belgian port of Antwerp. The service is complemented by TransFER Duisburg–Antwerp and TransFER Linz–Scandinavia–Wels for seamless supply chains.

Launched a decade ago with three weekly round trips, the TransFER Linz–Antwerp is now one of the most efficient connections in RCG’s network. With six round trips per week and a consistently high utilisation rate of around 90%, it enables transport between Austria and Belgium within 24 hours – primarily for conventional wagon loads, but also for containers.

Network expansion and operational development

Originally, the TransFER was operated by external partners from Passau to the port of Antwerp. Today, RCG operates the route to the Belgian border under its own traction. In Belgium, trusted partners continue to provide traction and last mile services. The TransFER offers access to all parts of the port of Antwerp – depending on the available last mile options, which are assessed at short notice to meet individual customer needs quickly.  

Another advantage: wagons from South-North traffic destined for Belgium can be scheduled for reloading in North-South traffic, reducing empty runs and transport costs. In addition, weekly antenna connections to Moerdijk or Vlissingen can be arranged.

Strong offer of combinations

Since autumn 2024, the TransFER Duisburg–Antwerp has complemented the RCG network and is closely aligned with the connections TransFER Linz–Duisburg–Wels and TransFER Linz–Antwerp. Currently, two round trips per week operate between Duisburg and the port of Antwerp – with frequency set to increase to three per week from summer 2025. This results in additional combination options for transport between Linz and Antwerp – six direct round trips and two more in combination. This opens up further routes to customers for transport to and from Germany – with direct access to one of Europe's largest seaports. In addition, a continuous logistics chain is available from Duisburg/Rheinkamp to Northern Europe: in combination with the TransFER Linz–Scandinavia–Wels, volumes can be added for Malmö, and import and export shipments to and from Antwerp can be integrated.

05.08.2025