Rail operator Lineas and port operator PSA Antwerp have launched a new rail service connecting the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge. It runs three times per week in both directions.
The rail connection links PSA’s terminal in Zeebrugge with the Noordzee Terminal in Antwerp. A first fully loaded container train left Zeebrugge on 27 May, “marking the resumption of a critical rail connection between the two ports”, says Lineas, which is responsible for the operational execution of the service.
“Aligned with PSA’s Node to Network strategy, we are continuously working to strengthen our terminals’ hinterland connectivity to offer our customers an expanding suite of multimodal, efficient, and sustainable solutions. With this new rail connection, 26,000 TEUs will be transported annually between Zeebrugge and Antwerp”, commented Edward Tah, Managing Director at PSA Belgium.
Hinterland connections
Whereas the service primarily connects the Zeebrugge and Noordzee terminals of PSA, it also pays a visit to Lineas’ MainHub in Antwerp. That allows for further integration with European hinterland destinations. “By picking up empty containers and consolidating export cargo, maximum utilisation of the train is ensured”, says Lineas.
Lineas came out with this video announcement of the new rail connection. Video: © Lineas
“This new service fits perfectly into our strategy to further expand the rail network with frequent, reliable connections between the most important ports and industrial clusters. By making smart combinations of imports and exports via our MainHub, we are increasing efficiency and making a tangible contribution to the modal shift and climate targets”, adds Lineas CEO Erik Van Ockenburg.