New intra-German intermodal service

Hector Rail and Samskip have launched the thrice-a-week Duisburg-Rostock connection for containers and trailers (incl. non-cranable).

The 700 m long trains link Duisburg Hohenbudberg and Rostock Trimodal. Arrivals at the latter are synchronised with Hansa Destinations' ro-ro service between the German seaport and the Swedish Nynäshamn.

"There has been a clear need to increase capacity between Germany and Scandinavia based on growing trade volumes and new requests, but high diesel prices and continuing driver shortages are also steering more cargo away from the road," Gert-Jan Meijer, Head of Trade, Sweden, Samskip, said.

He furthered, "Offering an additional high-frequency service option consolidates the competitive edge that multimodal has over road haulage in terms of reliability in the supply chain."

Meijer also underlined, "Our larger customers want to do more using lower carbon options, new customers are knocking on the door and it's fair to say that there is a general mood in Germany that now is the time to switch away from road."

Stig Kyster-Hansen, Managing Director of Hector Rail, commented, "Hector Rail is delighted to be able to expand its excellent long-term cooperation with Samskip by establishing a two-way intermodal offer between the Ruhr area and Scandinavia."

Photo: Rostock Trimodal/Euroports Germany