A German court ruling on October 1st established an upper cost limit of €8.2 billion for DB InfraGO in 2027. This decision is expected to result in a substantial increase in track access charges for rail freight operators in Germany. The implications extend beyond 2027, with further significant price adjustments anticipated for 2028.
For freight forwarders and shippers utilizing German rail networks, these impending price hikes will directly translate into higher operational costs. This could affect the competitiveness of rail freight compared to other transport modes, particularly for intermodal shipments crossing Germany. Forwarders should prepare for increased budgeting for rail components of their supply chains and evaluate potential shifts in routing or mode where feasible to mitigate these rising costs.
