Ukrzaliznytsia, in cooperation with VTG and Rail Cargo Austria, has completed a trial intermodal service to transport semi-trailers from Kyiv to Budapest. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the development of intermodal transport connections between Ukraine and European countries. The project was launched as part of a memorandum of understanding signed in September 2023 between Ukrzaliznytsia, Rail Cargo Austria, and VTG on the development of intermodal rail communications between Ukraine and Austria.
“With this journey, we have commenced the implementation of an intermodal transportation project between Ukraine and European countries. Our future plans include jointly developing this route to Vienna, as recently agreed,” stated Timofiy Murakhovskiy, Director of Commercial Affairs and Logistics at Ukrzaliznytsia.
The pilot shipment involved the transfer of loaded road semi-trailers from Kyiv-Leski station to Budapest station. Loading and related operations were carried out at Ukrzaliznytsia's container terminals in Kyiv and Chop. The transport was facilitated by Ukrzaliznytsia's container platforms, with transshipment at Chop station to a 1435 mm European-standard container platform provided by German operator VTG. Rail Cargo Austria handled the traction vehicles after the transshipment.
The parties involved are also actively working on issues related to customs clearance for import and export operations associated with intermodal transport. In addition, a test run from Kaunas to Kyiv and back is planned for the near future in cooperation with Lithuanian Railways (LTG).
