Dear Customers,

We are very sorry to inform you that the operational situation on the German rail network continues to deteriorate.

Our concerns that the alternative routes would not be able to handle the planned number of trains during the closure in the Elbe Valley have been confirmed. Due to significant problems in this region, the smooth traffic flow is seriously disrupted, making any planned traffic management impossible. It is not possible to ensure the circulation of locomotives or train crews. Negotiations with the infrastructure manager are unfortunately not yielding the desired results. Trains to and from the North German seaports, Rotterdam and Duisburg are facing delays of an entirely unpredictable extent.

The development of the situation in recent days has forced us to cancel nearly 10 import trains from Hamburg and Bremerhaven. At this point, there is no other solution but to reschedule all shipments for later departures. Given the circumstances, we cannot be held responsible for any additional costs arising from late collection or delivery of containers.

Unfortunately, the complications do not end there.

Restrictions on the route to/from Wilhelmshaven

• During construction works on 3 and 4 November 2025, a crack was discovered in the load-bearing structure of the Huntebrücke bridge on the Bremen – Oldenburg – Wilhelmshaven line. The bridge is under constant monitoring and may be subject to sudden complete closures. Currently, rail traffic over it is limited to a single track with minimal passing speed. As a result, significant delays are expected for trains to/from Wilhelmshaven. Repairs are expected to begin in approximately four weeks. Installation of the replacement part will require a full closure of the bridge, the duration of which cannot yet be estimated.
• Due to reconstruction work, the Bremen Neustadt – Delmenhorst line will be completely closed for trains to/from Wilhelmshaven during the following periods: from 21 November 2025, 23:00 to 24 November 2025, 04:00, and from 5 December 2025, 23:00 to 8 December 2025, 04:00. We are currently negotiating possible alternative routes for this closure.

Despite the current desperate situation on the railway infrastructure, we continue to negotiate with DB InfraGO and strive to obtain additional capacity. We will continue to keep you informed about further developments.

For questions regarding your specific shipments, please contact our customer service.

METRANS Team