The ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) has officially launched operations in Belgium, following the successful arrival of its first freight train under its own traction at the Port of Zeebrugge on 14 October. The milestone marks another step in the company’s European expansion and integration into the Benelux logistics market.
The move comes after RCG received a single safety certificate from the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA), covering operations in the Netherlands, Belgium, and parts of western Germany. The certification confirms compliance with all EU safety and operational standards, enabling RCG to operate independently across these territories using its own locomotives.
Independent operations begin in Belgium
With this certification, RCG can now conduct fully independent freight operations in Belgium — an important development for its international logistics strategy. By running trains under its own traction, RCG can offer customers greater flexibility, efficiency, and reliability in cross-border freight transport.
The first train under the new certification departed from Roosendaal (Netherlands) and reached Zeebrugge at midday on 14 October. This inaugural journey officially integrates Belgium into RCG’s European production network, giving customers access to new TransFER connections and sustainable transport solutions across the Benelux region.
Strengthening Western European presence
The expansion builds on RCG’s growing footprint in Western Europe. The company established its own carrier entity in the Netherlands in 2024, and with the addition of Belgium, it now offers seamless cross-border rail logistics throughout key European trade corridors.
“With the start of our operations in Belgium, we are strengthening our position as a leading European rail logistics provider and, for the first time, establishing a direct connection under our own traction to the ports of Zeebrugge and Antwerp,” said Clemens Först, CEO of ÖBB Rail Cargo Group. “This enables us to offer our customers even more services from a single source and to further advance the sustainable connectivity of Europe.”
The extension of operations also aligns with RCG’s broader mission to promote sustainable modal shift from road to rail, supporting the EU’s climate and logistics goals.
Job opportunities
As part of its expansion, the ÖBB Rail Cargo Group is building a local team in Belgium. The company is currently recruiting train drivers with proficiency in French, Dutch, and German, as well as a team leader for its new operations base in Antwerp.
Interested candidates can apply via jobs.rcc.bx@railcargo.com
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