DB Cargo transformation

DB Cargo is implementing a comprehensive transformation to sustainably improve profitability. At its core is the simplification of production structures and processes. This simultaneously creates the conditions for making transport more robust and resilient:

• New structure: Starting January 1, 2025, joint production will be replaced by a new divisional structure based on customer needs in units responsible for results. Within DB Cargo AG, the Rail Logistics division comprises the four areas Steel, Automotive, Liquids&Bulk and Full Load Solutions (FLS). The Combined Transport division (CT) comprises the maritime CT and the continental CT. The areas bear responsibility for the economic results of their services and the quality. Locomotives, freight cars and personnel are assigned to them (encapsulated production). In the future, the areas of DB Cargo AG will provide traction services with their own personnel and production resources if this is possible profitably, otherwise services will be awarded to external train operating companies.
• Simplified production in block train and combined transport: Simpler processes and more efficient use of locomotives and personnel will increase the robustness of production in block train transport (BT) and combined transport (CT). Locomotives and traction unit drivers are clearly assigned to BT and CT. This will help to increase quality and network stability, make more efficient use of production resources, and realize cost savings.
• New concept for single wagon transport: The singlewagon network will be switched to a supply-oriented, high-frequency train network between the train formation yards, with paired train runs as far as possible. This will increase the reliability of the transport, because in this system the transports are planned so that it is paired where possible and can be run in circulation with one locomotive driver and with higher train frequencies between the yards. The new concept will be implemented at the time of the timetable change on December 15, 2024.
• Streamlining planning and administration: By simplifying production, the capacities required for planning and controlling of transports in the regions, in the control tower and in administration can be significantly reduced. The consistent digitalization of processes will significantly reduce manual administration activities.