A broad alliance of logistics companies and industry associations has launched a new initiative, Save Combined Transport, warning that current conditions in German rail freight risk undermining one of Europe’s most important climate-friendly transport systems.
The campaign was triggered by an open letter sent to Federal Transport Minister Patrick Schnieder and Deutsche Bahn CEO Evelyn Palla, in which signatories voiced concerns about declining reliability, rising operational costs and the impact of extensive construction work on the German rail network. According to the initiative, the strong response to the letter indicates a growing need for a unified industry position.
Concerns over network disruption and cost pressures
Combined transport — the integration of rail and road freight — is described by the initiative as a key component of European supply chains. In Germany, operators state that the system replaces around six million truck movements per year. However, the sector says it is facing increasing strain.
Industry representatives cite declining punctuality, train cancellations, rising charges and long-term line closures linked to Deutsche Bahn’s ongoing general refurbishment programme. They also point to limited viable diversion routes, which they say complicate rerouting during construction phases.
According to the initiative, these factors are pushing some freight volumes back onto roads. It warns that even a partial modal shift could have significant implications for congestion, emissions and industrial competitiveness.
New website outlines risks and background
The initiative has also launched a dedicated website offering data, case studies and information on the role of combined transport.
It sets out what it describes as the potential “collateral damage” of large-scale corridor renovation works for shippers, logistics operators and the environment.
Sector outlines measures for stabilising combined transport
As part of its campaign, Save Combined Transport sets out several demands aimed at policymakers and infrastructure managers. These include more predictable framework conditions, guaranteed freight capacity during construction periods, viable diversionary routes, and what the sector defines as fair and competitive track access charges.
The initiative argues that infrastructure planning and maintenance should be structured in a way that enables logistics operations to continue without major disruption. Industry representatives say they are open to dialogue and emphasise the need for constructive cooperation.
Petition launched to broaden support
To help draw political and public attention to the issue, the initiative has launched a petition that is open to companies, organisations and individuals. Supporters are encouraged to join the platform, which seeks to represent the perspective of freight users affected by network disruption, path cancellations and increasing access charges.
Short- and medium-term proposals
The campaign includes a list of measures that the sector believes could help stabilise combined transport during the current period of infrastructure renewal. These proposals include:
- Zero track access charges as an immediate relief measure, similar to arrangements in long-distance passenger rail.
- A capacity guarantee of at least 90% of current levels during corridor renovations.
- Upgrading diversion routes to ensure comparable train lengths, weights and loading gauges to those on main lines.
- Market-oriented allocation of train paths in bottleneck situations.
- Compensation for operating difficulties when only inferior train paths are available during construction phases.
- Suspension of charges in cases where train paths are cancelled due to infrastructure issues.
Coordinated by Kombiverkehr and Hupac
The Save Combined Transport initiative is coordinated by combined transport operators Kombiverkehr and Hupac. According to both organisations, the goal is to safeguard a mode of transport that they consider vital for supply chains and climate policy objectives. The platform is open to all interested stakeholders.
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