Innovative scheduling and rapid turnaround wins Malcolm Logistics intermodal contract for DB Schenker Rail UK

DB Schenker Rail UK has won a major new three-year contract with Malcolm Logistics to provide intermodal trains between Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal (DIRFT) and Mossend Euroterminal.

DB Schenker Rail UK won the contract from the long-term incumbent by devising a schedule that enables a single train to complete the round trip in just 24 hours. Previously, two trains had to be used on the route, one in each direction, to maintain the strict delivery schedule demanded by the contract. 

The more streamlined service developed by DB Schenker Rail UK introduced considerable time efficiencies and cost savings, using electric traction to reduce journey times. 

David Munt, Commercial Manager, Rail Development at DB Schenker Rail UK, said: “Our innovative solution to this contract meant we offered a much more efficient and cost-effective service than our competitors. It was essential for the end customers that time-sensitive goods, arrived at distribution centres on time, and we were able to provide those assurances.”

Malcolm Logistics has built up its multi-faceted, blue chip customer base over a long period. The containers carried under this contract will hold goods for major retailers, manufactures and link with mainland Europe. 

Upon winning the contract, DB Schenker Rail UK had a very short implementation window of just four weeks to get the service up and running. 

David adds: "Given the tight implementation programme, we had to pull out all the stops to ensure that we lived up to customer expectations for reliability, service and performance. It’s a testament to the determination and expertise of everyone involved that the first train despatched under this contract actually departed a few minutes early."

Andrew Malcolm, Chief Executive of The Malcolm Group said: "Malcolm Logistics has been involved in rail for 13 years as part of our wider logistics offering throughout the UK. DB Schenker Rail UK gained our business based upon competitive pricing, performance commitments and an ability to meet our growing demand for rail logistics through innovative solutions and a fresh approach to customer relations."