PSA Antwerp and Lineas launch new direct rail connection between Zeebrugge and Antwerp to strengthen
sustainable hinterland connectivity
Brussels, June 3, 2025 - PSA Antwerp and Lineas announced the successful launch of a new rail service directly linking PSA’s terminal in Zeebrugge with the Noordzee Terminal in Antwerp, at Transport Logistic, an international transportation and logistics trade fair held in Munich, Germany. A fully loaded container freight train departed from Zeebrugge on 27 May 2025, marking the resumption of a critical rail connection between the two ports. Commenced 2 June 2025, the service will operate three times per week in both directions.
The rail connection is part of PSA Antwerp's Hinterland Connectivity Program, which focuses on sustainable and efficient multimodal transport solutions between its ports and the hinterland. Through an extensive network of rail and inland waterway services, PSA offers a strong alternative to road transport. For Lineas, this project fits into its strategy to support the modal shift from road to rail by providing high-performance and reliable rail services between key economic hubs.
Edward Tah, Managing Director PSA Belgium: “Aligned with PSA’s Node to Network strategy, we are continuously working to strengthen our terminals’ hinterland connectivity to offer our customers an expanding suite of multimodal, efficient, and sustainable solutions. With this new rail connection, 26,000 TEUs will be transported annually between Zeebrugge and Antwerp”
The new rail link will complement the existing inland waterway service between the port of Zeebrugge and Antwerp, which provides PSA Zeebrugge and its customers with additional flexibility in selecting the most suitable mode of transport.
Strategic role for Lineas MainHub
Lineas is responsible for the entire operational execution of the rail connection. After arriving at the PSA North Sea Terminal, the train makes a stop at the Lineas MainHub in Antwerp, serving as a hub for further transport within Belgium and to the European hinterland. By picking up empty containers and consolidating export cargo, maximum utilization of the train is ensured.
Erik Van Ockenburg, CEO at Lineas: “This new service fits perfectly into our strategy to further expand the rail network with frequent, reliable connections between the most important ports and industrial clusters. By making smart combinations of imports and exports via our MainHub, we are increasing efficiency and making a tangible contribution to the modal shift and climate targets.”
The cooperation between PSA and Lineas confirms the joint commitment to make rail a full alternative within port traffic. With this new connection, both companies are taking the next step in the realization of sustainable logistics chains, in line with national and European climate ambitions.
About PSA
PSA Antwerp is the second flagship within the PSA Group. PSA Antwerp operates three container terminals in the Port of Antwerp: Noordzee and Europa Terminal, and the MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET), a joint-venture with TIL. In addition, PSA also handles breakbulk, steel, and project cargo at PSA Breakbulk, and RoRo and paper at our multi-purpose terminal, PSA Zeebrugge.
More information www.psa-antwerp.be/
For more information about Lineas, visit our website www.lineas.net