Strong long-haul driving at DB Cargo: Efficient and flexible

Introduction of "strong long-haul driving" at DB Cargo

With the introduction of the "Strong long-haul driving" train driver deployment model, DB Cargo is taking an important step towards greater efficiency and flexibility, which will have a direct impact on the quality of our transports and thus offer customers immediate added value. In step 1, the new model was introduced in combined transport (CT) with the timetable change in December 2024. It optimizes the deployment of train drivers by aligning the operating conditions with today's competitive requirements and managing the trains holistically from a single source. Dispatching is carried out from two central industry centers. For continental combined transport (trains with trailers, swap bodies or tank containers) it is Duisburg and for maritime combined transport (container trains) it is Hamburg. This adjustment also enables faster operational decisions.

The advantages of the new model at a glance

The "strong long-haul driving" model offers a number of advantages:

• Increased flexibility: by adapting the operating conditions of train drivers, longer routes can be driven and it is possible to react better to deviations, which improves transport quality
• Less susceptibility to disruption: operations are more stable due to fewer staff changes, as train drivers drive significantly longer routes
• Less coordination effort: fewer train drivers and dispatchers are involved per train journey, which reduces interfaces and enables faster operational decisions for the benefit of customers

Different deployment models at DB Cargo

DB Cargo has developed new deployment models that are precisely tailored to the different transport needs of our customers. Up to now, we have worked in a relay system: Each train driver drives for a few hours and then hands over to the successor, who drives the train in the other direction. In theory, this is a very effective model, but it doesn't always work with the large number of construction sites, delays or disruptions to the infrastructure.

This is where "strong long-haul driving" comes in. Train drivers work in a more self-organized manner, drive longer routes, spend several nights away from home at a time and receive corresponding extras for this additional flexibility. All train drivers? Depending on requirements. In single freight car transport, train drivers mainly work in the conventional model, i.e. more like before. Most work in the standard model, which is much more flexible - this means, among other things, longer driving times on the locomotive than before, regular overnight stays, etc.

Successful start and outlook for the future

There are currently already 120 highly motivated volunteers working in combined transport in line with the principles of "strong long-haul driving". The rollout of this model in block train transport is already being planned and will contribute to improving transport quality and meeting customer needs. This model is an important step towards increasing DB Cargo's competitiveness.