Sufficient capacity, favourable prices and transparency are the key challenges for the combinded transport road/rail. But operators see good prospects in the medium term. 

The development of combined transport (CT) depends on the economic situation, but not only that. ‘Demand is also developing in line with supply.’ Nicole Tews, a CT expert at consultancy firm Oliver Wyman, emphasised this at the German Transport Forum’s discussion event, ‘Reshaping Combined Transport: How do we take combined transport to a new level?’ on Wednesday.

Armin Riedl, Managing Director of Kombiverkehr, said that the frequently criticised lack of punctuality, which currently stands at around 50 per cent, is not the most important criterion when deciding whether to use CT. Tews referred to Wyman’s discussions with freight forwarders and shippers when making this statement. ‘Sufficient capacity comes first, ahead of price and transparency’. Punctuality only comes in seventh place.

Higher prices, poorer quality

In addition, the diversions would result in considerable additional costs for the operators, which could not be passed on to customers in full. Furthermore, ‘train path prices are increasing for poorer quality services. At some point, this will no longer be viable,’ he warns. ‘We are moving further and further away from the road.’ Reinhard Oswald, authorised signatory at Ernst Frankenbach Spedition in Mainz, adds that many customers are already looking to the road again in view of the shortcomings on the railways.

But, Florian Dirr, who is responsible for combined transport at the Federal Ministry of Transport, among other things, is not willing to promise compensation from the federal government for these additional burdens caused by the corridor renovations. The ministry recognises that a functioning infrastructure is essential for the railways, particularly CT, to accommodate the expected growth by 2040. Hopes are pinned on corridor modernisation. Experience with the Riedbahn was positive, so ‘it will continue in this form’, he said, referring to other routes. (...)