As rail operators, we receive daily inquiries about diverse aspects of shipping cargo via rail. While we have answered all the questions we get from existing and potential clients directly, we’ve noticed a pattern of reoccurring questions that keep popping up. To clear the air about some of the most popular queries when it comes to rail transport, we’ve compiled a list with the 5 most frequently asked questions regarding rail freight, in an effort to offer comprehensive answers. Check them out in the article below:  

1. What is the maximum amount than can be transported via rail freight forwarding?

One of the greatest assets of rail transport is the capacity to being able to transport huge quantities of cargo simultaneously. With a single wagon one can transport up to 20-22 tons worth of bulk merchandise. A single load can weight up to 1600 net tons, which means that one locomotive can be connected to around 40-42 wagons. Rail freight is an excellent transportation option for anyone looking to transport bulk cargo on land, especially on long distances.

2. What types of goods can be transported via rail?

When it comes to the type of goods that can be transported, rail is quite a versatile option, as it enables you to ship a wide range of products. You can virtually ship anything with the help of trains, from finished vehicles and textile products to steel pallets, mining minerals and grains. Heavy, odd-sized products, oversized cargo and products for which certain temperatures need to be maintained can also be transported through rail. Shipping hazardous goods is also a possibility with the help of rail, which offers the possibility of using specialized containers and wagons to transport materials such as explosives, non-flammable gas, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizers, poison, corrosive and radioactive materials.

3. How long does it take to solve disruptions?

As soon as there’s a slight possibility of a disruption happening, the clock starts ticking. It is of paramount importance to us as rail operators to resolve any issues encountered as soon as humanly possible. Our client’s satisfaction and their trust in us hangs in the balance, so our priority is to make the problems go away with lightning speed. We have a set of protocols in place which help us deal with disruptions in an efficient and timely manner, minimizing the effect of the disturbances encountered during the journey.

4. Why is there no set timetable for rail freight shipping?

The rail freight network operates 24/7 and features varying timetables, which depend on many factors. These factors may include weather conditions, client requirements, port operations, rail operators and other aspects. The most important thing when it comes to rail freight forwarding is not the set timetable, but the estimated and promised time of arrival, which is crucial to both rail operators and customers. Thus, timetables are secondary, are not regular, can very greatly and because of this, freight timetables are not made public.

5. How can I resolve door-to-door shipping?

This is one of the most frequent questions we receive, as many don’t necessarily perceive how it is possible to ship bulk commodities to the destination warehouse. The answer lies in intermodal rail transport, a combination of road and rail shipping, which can help ensure door-to-door shipping. Our partner network enables us to make arrangements and to supply long-distance shipping via rail, which is then complimented by transporting the cargo from the station to the warehouse via trucks.

Do you still have questions? At MMV Rail Romania we are eager to set the record straight on any and all confusions you might have regarding rail freight forwarding. Send us a detailed list of your specific requirements and one of our team members will get back to you shortly with a personalized quote and answers tailored to your exact query.