News / MSC and GB Railfreight sign new five-year UK intermodal deal

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and GB Railfreight (GBRf) have signed a new five-year, volume-based deal covering the carrier’s intermodal shipments within the UK.

MSC said the deal would increase wagon utilisation and reduce carbon emissions.

“Our priority was to continue to offer unparalleled capability and flexibility to our line haulage customers in a fast-paced and ever-evolving UK intermodal market,” it added.

“Increased wagon utilisation was a key component from the start and engagement with ports and inland terminals to support this initiative took place early on.

“We are delighted that our new shared contract will allow both MSC and GBRf to continue our work in taking steps to reduce CO2 emissions by moving containers via rail, closer to final destination.”

The agreement covers services from Felixstowe and London Gateway to the Midlands and Yorkshire, with a minimum commitment of five days a week.

The two companies said services would “remain agile and be able to provide flexibility to changing market dynamics while supporting MSC’s intermodal volume growth”.

GB Railfreight MD John Smith added: “Given MSC’s projected future growth, we have struck a flexible agreement which will allow both parties to make better use of the services we share.

“With the economic picture looking uncertain, I am pleased we will continue working with MSC – a move which shows that the rail freight market is in good shape and will be needed more than ever as we begin the road back to recovery.”