Lineas expands rail freight operations at Port of Antwerp

Belgian rail freight operator Lineas is set to expand its operations at the Port of Antwerp after being selected to manage Railport Area 7, with the new arrangement scheduled to take effect on 1 January 2027.

The development will extend the company’s existing presence within the port, where it already operates Railport Areas 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6B, following assignments awarded in 2025.

The additional operating area will allow Lineas to coordinate rail freight movements across a wider section of the port’s railway network, supporting connections between terminals, industrial facilities and freight customers.

Lineas strengthens its position in Antwerp

Lineas was selected to operate Railport Area 7 through a competitive process coordinated by Railport, with the final decision made by participating shippers.

The appointment represents a further expansion of the company’s responsibilities within one of Europe’s major port and logistics hubs.

Railport’s operating model focuses on consolidating rail freight volumes and improving the coordination of railway movements between port terminals and industrial customers.

By adding Area 7 to its existing operations, Lineas will take responsibility for a broader range of rail activities within the port.

Focus on rail freight coordination

The expansion is intended to support the coordination of rail operations and the handling of freight movements within the port area.

The Railport model brings together freight volumes from different customers, aiming to improve the organisation of rail transport and the use of available railway capacity.

The new assignment is scheduled to begin in January 2027. The announcement does not specify additional investment commitments, new infrastructure projects or changes in train frequencies associated with the operating area.