Current Developments in Rail Operations – July 2025 Update
As part of our regular updates, we would like to inform you about current and upcoming events affecting rail operations. In addition to infrastructure-related disruptions on the rail network, there are also impacts at the associated seaport terminals.
Overview of current events and disruptions:
- Embankment fires on 1 July 2025 brought rail traffic across the entire northern region to a near standstill.
- Bomb disposal near Osnabrück – complete closure of the line.
- Overhead line damage, also in the Osnabrück area – resulting in extended train standstills.
- Ongoing heat is affecting technical operations: two locomotives had to be taken out of service due to technical faults.
- Passenger services are also affected. As passenger trains are given priority in rail operations, freight trains are frequently required to move to sidings to allow passenger trains to pass – leading to further delays.
Current handling delays at Hamburg terminals:
EUROKOMBI: approx. 6 hours
HHLA CTA: approx. 4 hours
HHLA Burchardkai: approx. 8 hours
There are also shunting delays within the Port of Hamburg, caused by congestion at terminals and by recent system failures at HPA. As a result, some train driver shifts have expired, making it necessary to take certain trains out of operation.
This combination of disruptions can unfortunately no longer be fully absorbed – we are currently experiencing major train delays and, in some cases, train cancellations.
Our dispatching team will continue to provide shipment-specific updates if your transport is affected.
Please note:
Delays affect both seaport and inland terminals and have a significant impact on overall network stability.
We are doing everything possible to minimise the effects on your bookings.
Before pick-up, please check the availability of loading units at seaports and inland terminals.
To avoid unnecessary trips, please refer to our pre-advice messages and shipment-specific notifications.
Important: Due to the ongoing heat, further operational restrictions are expected today.
Reminder: The DEGES full closure of the access road to the western part of the Port of Hamburg (Waltershof) is scheduled to take place from 4 to 8 July 2025.
We would also like to highlight that your active cooperation as a terminal customer remains an important factor in maintaining smooth operations at seaport terminals.
With regard to delivery schedules, we refer to our General Terms and Conditions.
Please note that fixed delivery dates can only be honoured if transport conditions on rail and road remain unobstructed.
Thank you for your attention. Should you have any questions, our team is happy to assist at any time.
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