Siemens Mobility has finalised the automation of the Kijfhoek freight rail yard in the Netherlands under a contract with infrastructure manager ProRail B.V.
The upgraded facility, located near Rotterdam, is now operating at full capacity using an automated yard management system designed to improve operational efficiency and freight handling.
Kijfhoek is the largest freight yard in the Netherlands and acts as a key connection point between the Port of Rotterdam and major industrial areas across Europe. The modernisation project, valued at approximately 110 million EUR and awarded in 2021, was completed in May 2025.
The core of the upgrade involved the deployment of Siemens Mobility’s Trackguard Cargo MSR32 system, which coordinates the routing and scheduling of freight trains through the yard. The automation will reduce handling times, streamline traffic flows, and support the overall reliability of cargo operations.
Jens Nordmann, Head of Mainline at Siemens Mobility said:The modernisation of Kijfhoek demonstrates how intelligent automation transforms rail freight operations. By implementing our advanced Trackguard Cargo MSR32 system, we are significantly enhancing operational efficiency and thus setting new standards for sustainable freight transport in Europe. This project exemplifies our commitment to delivering solutions that make cargo movement faster, more efficient, and more reliable.
The completion of this project marks a step in ProRail’s efforts to strengthen the logistical role of the Dutch rail network in European freight transport.
Helga Cuijpers, Regional Director Randstad South Region at ProRail said:The facility now in full operations marks an important milestone. Now fully renewed, our freight yard facility near Rotterdam is not only fast and efficient, it also strengthens its position as key freight hub connecting the port of Rotterdam with other European industrial centers. We thank Siemens Mobility for the works done and the cooperation with the ‘best for project’ approach.
