Doncaster-based DB Schenker Rail UK (
www.rail.dbschenker.co.uk) and PD Ports (
www.pdports.co.uk) have launched their first rail-freight service, which runs daily from Teesport (in Middlesbrough) to Mossend and Grangemouth (in Scotland).
The train will be able to carry 40 extra-long (45ft) containers.
Dino Vecchione, account manager at DB Schenker Rail UK and project leader for the service, said: “We always strive to develop new and innovative ways to offer tailor-made solutions to our customers. This partnership demonstrates what can be achieved when a rail operator and port operator work together to achieve the same goal. This daily round-trip service by rail will help to ease congestion and lower carbon emissions by providing a cost-effective and robust alternative to road transport.”
Geoff Lippitt, business-development director at PD Ports, said: “We are delighted to see the commencement of the first daily train service connecting Teesport to Scotland, further enhancing our position as the ‘gateway’ for containerised goods destined for the North of the UK.
“This new service truly demonstrates how this type of collaboration can prove highly effective and deliver real benefits for shipping lines and inter-modal customers from both a commercial and environmental perspective.”