DB Schenker, a global logistics solutions specialist, is currently spearheading an extensive logistics project supporting the German energy transition.

This complex undertaking involves the transportation and storage of a staggering 876 cable drums – a total weight of approximately 43,000 metric tons and nearly 920,000 metres of cable in total length.

Multimodal transport for high-voltage grid infrastructure

DB Schenker is executing an integrated multimodal transport concept on behalf of Sumitomo Electric Industries. The cable drums are being delivered from production facilities in Kobe, Japan, and Mannheim, Germany, to three designated storage locations in Emden, Wesel, and Krefeld.

These cables are crucial components for the construction of Corridor A-North, a vital high-voltage grid project undertaken by transmission system operator Amprion. This corridor will facilitate the transmission of wind power generated in the North Sea to densely populated areas in western Germany.

Seamless logistics project execution

DB Schenker’s expertise lies in the seamless integration of various transportation modes. Cable drums manufactured in Japan are shipped by ocean-going vessels from Kobe to Emden, or to the western European ports of Antwerp or Rotterdam. From these ports, inland waterway vessels provide onward transportation to Krefeld and Wesel.

Furthermore, DB Schenker utilises inland waterway vessels and heavy goods vehicles to transport cable drums originating from the Mannheim production site to the designated storage facilities.

Their services encompass the entire logistics value chain, including coordination of all modes of transport, pre-carriage ex works by truck and inland waterway vessel, port handling, cargo monitoring and the chartering of multipurpose cargo ships, customs clearance, special official permits and the provision, organization and monitoring of more than 11,000 square meters of interim storage facilities in Emden, Wesel and Krefeld.

Commenting on the logistics project, Daniel Wieland, Senior Vice President Global Projects & Industry Solutions, DB Schenker, said, “Our global team of experts is orchestrating this extensive large-scale project. Our project specialists are providing our client with customized, safe and reliable services, from the design, planning and coordination of the multimodal transports to customs clearance, storage and delivery.”