The new mid-week service starts today, 1 October.
The new service is operated by Freightliner and complements the existing weekend rail link, which will begin in 2022. The initiative aims further to enhance the transport network between the two logistics hubs, providing customers with improved access to warehousing, transhipment, freight forwarding and delivery services.
London Gateway Logistics Park, the UK’s largest port-proximity logistics park, comprises 9.25 million sq ft of gross floor space.
DP World estimates that the additional service will help cut over one million truck miles per year, contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions.
Customers using the new service can also benefit from the company’s Modal Shift Programme, which provides financial incentives for using rail transport for container movements within 140 miles of the Southampton hub.
The programme has already increased the share of rail freight at Southampton from 21% to over 30%.
“Launching a second rail service between London Gateway and Southampton is the next logical step for DP World, given the clear benefits for our customers. Providing a cleaner and more cost-efficient way to move cargo across the country is a key priority,” said John Trenchard, Vice President of Commercial & Supply Chain at DP World in the UK.,
Chris Lawrenson, Managing Director of Intermodal Logistics at Freightliner Group, added:
“Freightliner is delighted to continue supporting DP World with their second weekly port train service, providing lower carbon options for international container movements.”