With the introduction of the new 2025/2026 timetable, Frankfurt-based Kombiverkehr KG has undertaken a major modernization of its intermodal rail services between Germany and Spain. The operator has launched optimized direct trains, increased service frequency, and implemented a new operating model focused on greater service flexibility and sustainability for freight forwarders and logistics companies. According to Cébastien Eisner, Sales Manager for Western Europe, the updated concept opens up a “new future” for shipments to Spain, combining high-performance rail service with Kombiverkehr’s presence at the Barcelona Morrot terminal.
A key element of the new model is the consolidation of all shipments at two hubs – Ludwigshafen KTL in Germany and Barcelona Morrot in Spain. These terminals now handle all freight traffic to Spain, simplifying logistics processes and increasing service consistency. Previously, services were operated using multi-train trains with carriages being combined en route, but this arrangement was abandoned in favor of direct trains without intermediate operations.
The core of the updated network is the Ludwigshafen-Barcelona route, where Kombiverkehr operates 11 round-trips per week. Direct trains have also been launched between Barcelona and Madrid and Barcelona and Constantine, with three weekly services in each direction. On the German side, the Köln-Eifeltor terminal is directly connected to Ludwigshafen with four weekly services, while the Ludwigshafen-Hendaye and Antwerp-Madrid routes remain. Thus, the company has significantly strengthened its position on the Iberian route, offering the market more frequent, sustainable, and environmentally friendly rail services.