DSV launches intermodal service between Turkey and UK

“We have seen an increasing interest in intermodal services as shippers seek more cost effective ways of sending their goods,” said Morten Joergensen, Managing Director DSV Road, Turkey. “As rail services between Turkey and the UK become more efficient and reliable, transit times are improving and the service becomes a real alternative to both road and shortsea.”

There are two options: three times a week direct by rail from Halkali train terminal in Istanbul to Zeebrugge or Rotterdam, or by short-sea services from Istanbul to Trieste in Italy and then by rail to Zeebrugge or Rotterdam, depending on final UK destination. The 45 pallet wide, hi-cube containers are then shipped across to the UK, either direct to the customer or into the DSV hub at Purfleet.

The service is a joint venture between two divisions of the DSV Group – DSV Air & Sea and DSV Road, the third largest logistics operator in Europe. 

Michael Morberg Madsen, Eastern European Market Manager, Road Freight Division, says: “This new service is a great supplement to our existing Turkish services by road and short-sea. As it is more economical than the conventional route by road, with a transit time that is only slightly longer, I am convinced the product will be of interest to many existing and potential DSV customers.”

The containers have the same loading capacity as a curtain-sided trailer. They are sealed by the shipper after loading and are fitted with enhanced locks for extra security.

“The rail service is also environmentally-friendly, which is of prime importance to some importers and exporters. And at DSV we also aim to improve our energy efficiency and to lower carbon emissions from our transport activities.”

Mr Madsen says DSV wants to give its customers the flexibility to select the precise service that suits their needs and budget. “Adding new services to our portfolio is part of DSV’s strategy to grow the Turkish market even further, as we see great potential in this area.”