Kijfhoek marshalling yard back to full operation after modernization
How Siemens Mobility modernized one of Europe’s most important freight hubs with state-of-the-art yard automation, ensuring high availability, increased operational efficiency, and long-term performance through a 15-year service partnership.
Strategic marshalling yard in the European network
Following a major modernization program, the Kijfhoek freight yard is back to full operational capacity. As the largest marshalling yard in the Netherlands, Kijfhoek plays a central role in rail freight transport between the Port of Rotterdam and key industrial centers across Europe.
The modernization project, including a 15-years maintenance contract, valued at 110 million euros and awarded to Siemens Mobility in 2021. The project was successfully completed in May 2025. This marks an important step in efforts to strengthen the capacity, efficiency and reliability of rail freight operations in the Netherlands and Europe.
Addressing outdated infrastructure and growing demand
Before the modernization, Kijfhoek’s infrastructure could no longer keep pace with increasing freight volumes and higher performance requirements. There was a clear need to replace an end‑of‑life system, as the number of issues and disturbances had increased over time. An update was required to maintain performance, safety, and reliability at the existing level.
At the same time, shippers and operators are raising their expectations, driven by supply chain optimization and the ambition to shift more cargo from road to rail. This requires modern, future-proof marshalling facilities that can handle peak volumes while delivering stable and predictable performance.
Complete modernization with Trackguard Cargo MSR32
Siemens Mobility has equipped Kijfhoek with a completely redesigned, fully automated yard control system. At the core of the solution is the Trackguard Cargo MSR32 system, providing comprehensive yard automation with advanced route and speed control, retarder and drive systems, and radio-based integration for the precise control of shunting locomotives during wagon sorting.
In addition, a Yard Management System has been implemented that supports and optimizes the entire process end-to-end – from arrival and classification to departure. By integrating the new automation with ProRail’s operational processes, shunting movements are managed in a consistent way, contributing to stable and safe day-to-day operations.
Operational benefits and stronger logistics position
With the upgraded yard in service, Kijfhoek is again fully operational – a major milestone for Dutch rail freight. The enhanced automation delivers significant efficiency gains, shorter handling times and increased processing capacity.
The upgrade also improves reliability and safety, as processes are more standardized and continuously monitored. The modernization is underpinned by a 15‑year maintenance agreement, helping to reduce lifecycle costs and support sustainable operational performance. With this upgrade, Kijfhoek further strengthens its role as a crucial link in European freight corridors and contributes to the Netherlands’ competitive position as a logistics hub.
Long-term partnership securing continuity
A key element of the project is a 15‑year service and maintenance contract, ensuring Siemens Mobility’s long-term involvement in supporting system performance. These long-term arrangements build on the strong, ongoing collaboration between ProRail and Siemens Mobility and are designed to provide predictable maintenance, high availability and continuous process optimization.
“The full reopening of Kijfhoek marks an important milestone. The modernised marshalling yard strengthens its role as a key freight hub connecting Rotterdam with European industrial centres. We greatly value Siemens Mobility’s contribution and our collaborative ‘Best for Project’ approach.”
Future-proof marshalling yard
Kijfhoek covers around 50 hectares southeast of Rotterdam and features 14 arrival tracks, 41 classification tracks and 12 stabling tracks. Thanks to the modernization and full automation, the yard is better equipped to handle growing freight volumes and respond flexibly to market needs.
This investment lays an important foundation for a future-proof rail freight network in which digitalization, safety and efficiency are the main focus.
“The modernisation of Kijfhoek demonstrates the potential of intelligent automation in rail freight. With Trackguard Cargo MSR32, we are increasing efficiency and reliability while strengthening the Netherlands’ position as a European logistics hub.”
