Intermodal freight transport is key to addressing some of today’s biggest logistics challenges: increasing global transport volumes, truck driver shortages, and the urgent need to reduce CO₂ emissions. While it has the potential to reshape freight logistics, its full potential is yet to be realized.

To change that, we need innovation – not only in infrastructure and policy, but also in technology and digitalization. We had the pleasure of welcoming Samer Ghandour from BASF for a guest lecture at our Chair. He shared how BASF is contributing to making intermodal rail transports more reliable and efficient by introducing new trends and innovation into the market, like the B-TCs (BASF Class Tank Container).

The result? A stackable tank container currently enabling storage of up to 2,000 TEU at the TCL railport in Ludwigshafen. It can be detached from the wagon for cleaning and SWL transport, saving time and costs, and it integrates smoothly into the existing intermodal system for greater flexibility. Built-in sensor technology supports digital tracking and boosts transparency and resilience in their supply chain.

Of course, innovation brings new challenges: With a net loading capacity of up to 66 t, the B-TC places new demands on terminal infrastructure and is limited to empty (public) road transport due to weight restrictions. Still, BASF’s approach shows what is possible when shippers take the initiative.

But to make intermodal rail freight transport truly competitive, we need further actions and measures, such as:

• continued investment in terminal capacity and infrastructure
• reliable and frequent train services
• supportive policy framework
• smarter digital integration across the system and
• bold new business models

At our Chair, we are working on exactly that: researching how to make intermodal transport more attractive, reliable and resilient. Learn more about our research and how can we make the transshipment process more efficient. Learn more about our research and how can we make the transshipment process more efficient.