From road to rail

Rolling highways

Intermodal transport and rolling highways

TRAFINEO offers customers of its business partners in Austria and Switzerland a comprehensive range of rolling highways (RoMo) and solutions for intermodal transport. Special low-floor trains are used that can transport entire trucks, which not only reduces transportation costs but also protects the environment. The use of RoMo is also politically supported, which represents a sustainable and future-proof transportation solution.

What is a rolling highway and why is it advantageous?

The question “What is a rolling highway?” is on the minds of many companies looking for an efficient and environmentally friendly transportation option. The RoMo offers the perfect solution to the challenges of road transportation and is ideal for companies looking for sustainable transport solutions. The Rolling Road, often referred to as RoMo, is a special form of intermodal transport in which entire trucks, including drivers, are transported by train on special low-floor wagons. The truck driver can rest in an accompanying carriage during the train journey, which is a considerable advantage, especially on long journeys.

Separate disclosure of CO2 emissions

A major advantage of the Rolling Highway is the separate reporting of CO2 emissions. Companies that are concerned about sustainability and environmental awareness can clearly see the benefits of reducing CO2 emissions through rail transportation. In contrast to conventional road transport, significantly less CO2 is released during rail transportation. These values are documented and can be used by companies to highlight their efforts to reduce emissions in reports. This is not only relevant for corporate social responsibility (CSR) management, but also for customers who are increasingly paying attention to the ecological footprint of their partners. Separate disclosure also makes it easier for companies to meet statutory CO2 reduction requirements and take advantage of potential tax breaks or subsidies aimed at environmental improvements.

Rest period for the driver

Another major advantage of the Rolling Highway is that rest periods are taken into account for the driver. While the truck is being transported on the train, the driver can take the legally prescribed breaks without extending the transportation time. The drivers have the opportunity to rest and make effective use of the time in the specially equipped accompanying wagons. This is particularly useful for long distances or in regions where strict regulations apply to rest periods, such as within the European Union. This regulation allows the driver to continue driving immediately after the train journey without having to take additional breaks. This not only reduces the overall duration of transportation, but also contributes to road safety, as rested drivers are less prone to accidents.

Bypassing the Tyrolean driving ban

In Tyrol, Austria, there are strict sectoral driving bans that significantly restrict the transit of trucks through certain areas. Thanks to the Rolling Highway, however, these bans can be circumvented. The truck is simply loaded onto the train and passes through the restricted areas without any legal hurdles. This is particularly relevant for companies that regularly transport goods through the Alpine region and are affected by the restrictions. By using RoMo, companies not only avoid the driving ban, but also benefit from the environmental advantages that rail transport brings. In addition, the use of the Rolling Highway makes it possible to avoid the time and expense of alternative routes.

Non-EU trucks no quotas necessary

Trucks from non-EU countries traveling through the European Union are generally subject to certain quotas. These quotas limit the number of journeys that can be made within a certain period of time and can often cause bottlenecks. A significant advantage of the Rolling Road is that non-EU trucks do not require additional quotas to be transported on the train routes. This gives companies from non-EU countries more flexibility, especially in times when quotas are scarce or additional permits are difficult to obtain. By using the Rolling Highway, trucks can travel across Europe without restrictions, which makes planning and logistics much easier for companies.