04. November 2026, 14:16 o'Clock
Switzerland
Article: ACTS and DB Cargo get construction logistics rolling
New block train services efficiently connect locations across Switzerland by combining different modes of transport
Gravel and sand for the construction industry on the outbound journey, excavated material on the return: thanks to close cooperation between ACTS AG, DB Cargo Full Load Solutions (DB Cargo FLS) Switzerland and DB Cargo Switzerland, regular block trains have been running in both directions between Luterbach in the canton of Solothurn and Ticino since mid-August.
When the construction site has no rail siding
To make rail freight possible even where there is no direct rail connection, the transport concept combines rail and road. The goods travel the main part of the route by train. Trucks handle the pre- and onward carriage for the first and last mile.
The ACTS roll-off container system is used, with containers transhipped horizontally. This means that construction sites and production facilities without a direct rail siding can also be integrated into intermodal transport.
“The construction industry needs reliable and flexible logistics solutions for large volumes of material. Together with ACTS, we are providing a service that combines the strengths of rail with the requirements of modern construction and waste-disposal logistics,” says Roman Bock, Branch Manager at DB Cargo FLS Switzerland.
Construction material outbound, excavated material inbound
On the outbound journey, gravel and sand components are transported from Luterbach to an asphalt producer in Ticino. In the opposite direction, excavated material from construction sites in Ticino is transported to the Vigier landfill site in Flumenthal near Solothurn.
Combining the two material flows improves utilisation and reduces empty runs. At least one round trip per week is planned. Additional rotations are planned if transport volumes increase.
A well-coordinated trio
To ensure that the transports work smoothly together, responsibilities are clearly divided: together with its Ticino partners GB Green Bizzozero/Fratelli Bizzozero, ACTS manages customer relationships and organises the pre- and onward carriage. DB Cargo FLS designs and manages the transport services. DB Cargo Switzerland provides rail traction.
The partners are already examining further routes and customer projects within Switzerland. There is significant potential for new transport services in the sector, particularly because even demanding construction logistics projects can be implemented simply and reliably.
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