Project Leader
The “Rail Connected” project is an initiative led by the Port Authority of Rotterdam, with the support of the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.
It involves terminal operators, railway operators and traction providers who collaborate with the Port Authority and Portbase, under the direction of the Rail Freight Platform.
Project Description
This initiative has been launched as a strategic response to the growing needs for efficiency and digitalization in the management of rail freight transport in the Port of Rotterdam. Some of the specific challenges to be solved were congestion and logistical complexity, characteristics of a port that handles a significant volume of cargo.
This project is part of the broad package of measures on rail freight transport in the port, providing greater knowledge and transparency of the process in this type of transport.
The innovative and differentiating element of “Rail Connected” lies in its comprehensive approach to the digitalization of rail logistics. It is a program that improves data exchange and includes the implementation of advanced technologies such as track sensors and cameras to provide accurate Time of Arrival (ETA) estimates. This feature is crucial for efficient planning and can significantly reduce wait times and improve asset utilization.
It is interesting to note that the program can integrate with other existing digital platforms, to improve coordination between all port operators and achieve a more cohesive and effective planning of cargo movements, which is essential to maintain the competitiveness of the port in the global arena.
This project, which promotes rail transport, allows the Port of Rotterdam to continue to grow in a sustainable way.
Objectives of the project
“Rail Connected” is a program focused on improving data exchange between carriers, rail operators and terminals, to improve the efficiency of rail operations at the Port of Rotterdam and to address complex logistics and freight congestion.
This tool makes it possible to improve the efficiency of this area through digitalization. It tracks to accurately control train configurations, including wagons, locomotives, and containers. In addition, it uses digital processes and data from train journeys and terminal utilization to optimize loading procedures.
The “Rail Connected” platform allows the Port of Rotterdam to track the 15 million containers that are transshipped each year at the port in real time with the aim of integrating it with other digital coordination platforms in ports.
Users will even be able to follow the composition of trains in terms of wagons, locomotives, and containers. Most of Rotterdam’s freight rail sector has already joined this platform.
Links of interest of the project
News release date
16th May 2024