02. June 2026, 08:42 o'Clock
Article: DB Cargo BTT delivers strong results in SQAS assessment
92% in SQAS interim assessment confirms high standards in chemical logistics
DB Cargo BTT, the hazardous goods freight forwarder within the Liquids & Bulk division at DB Cargo, achieved an excellent result of 92% in an SQAS interim assessment, significantly improving on its previous score of around 80%. This voluntary assessment sends a strong signal to customers, partners and employees: DB Cargo BTT is firmly committed to continuous improvement in safety, quality, transparency and sustainability – all key criteria for the chemical industry.
SQAS as the industry standard in the chemical sector
The Safety & Quality Assessment for Sustainability (SQAS), developed by the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), is regarded as the leading industry standard for logistics service providers. It evaluates, among other aspects, management systems, safety processes, the handling of subcontractors and greenhouse gas management. For many companies in the chemical industry, a strong SQAS result is a fundamental prerequisite when selecting service providers, as it ensures transparency and comparability.
Assessment of intermodal services
While DB Cargo regularly undergoes SQAS assessments as a rail operator, DB Cargo BTT participates in the “Transport Services” module. This assessment particularly focuses on pre- and onward carriage by road, as well as accompanying logistics services along the intermodal transport chain.
“Our regular participation in the SQAS assessment, with a focus on the first and last mile, complements DB Cargo’s rail-based evaluation and provides our intermodal customers with a high level of transparency along the entire logistics chain,” explains Marco Borgwardt, Head of Sales and Solution Design Multi-Modal at DB Cargo BTT.
Targeted improvements with measurable success
DB Cargo BTT's SQAS assessment evaluates intermodal logistics services - from transhipment to the road to the last mile.
The significant increase to 92% is the result of a structured improvement process. Under the direction of the Quality Management team within IT & Process Management at DB Cargo BTT, all relevant areas were systematically analysed and further developed.
“The key to success was the close collaboration between all departments – from operations and procurement to sales,” emphasises Patrick Schlicht, Head of IT & Process Management. “By drawing targeted conclusions from the last assessment, conducting internal trial audits and consistently following up on measures, we were able to sustainably improve our processes.”
Particularly notable progress has been made in emissions management. “Today, we can transparently report greenhouse gas emissions along the entire transport chain – including those of subcontractors. This provides a reliable data basis for sustainable logistics decisions and actively supports our customers in reducing their CO₂ footprint,” says Robert Schäfer, Head of Solution Design Multi-Modal.
Outlook: next steps in the SQAS process
The next regular SQAS assessment is scheduled for 2028 and will be based on an updated version of the evaluation system. Preparations at DB Cargo BTT are already underway, particularly with regard to increasing requirements in sustainability management. The aim is to continue achieving top-level results in the future and to consistently further develop internal processes.
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