DB Cargo has started regular operation of freight trains up to 835 metres long on the route between Maschen marshalling yard (Germany) and Malmö Godsban (Sweden). The new transport format, launched with the 2024/2025 timetable change, enables freight volumes on this route to be increased by 13% compared to standard-length trains (up to 740 metres), while maintaining the same costs for locomotives and drivers.
This project expands freight transport options on the key ScanMed (Scandinavia-Mediterranean) transport corridor, which is of strategic importance for Germany and the whole of Europe. The extra-long trains enable more freight to be transported for industries such as metallurgy, consumer goods and industrial production, increasing the efficiency of rail transport in the region.
DB Cargo implemented this project in partnership with DB Cargo Scandinavia, Trafikverket and other participants in the European Shift2Rail FR8RAIL IV initiative. In the future, the opening of the Fehmarnbelt railway tunnel in 2029, fully adapted for 835-metre-long trains, is expected to further increase the speed and cost-effectiveness of transport on this route.