DP World Expands Inter-Terminal Rail Services
DP World has strengthened its UK intermodal network with the launch of a fifth weekly rail service between Southampton and London Gateway, effective from 1 October 2025.
This service, operated by GB Railfreight, moves containers between DP World’s two deep-sea ports on the south coast, aiming to cut road mileage, boost resilience, and create greener supply chain options for shippers.
Why it matters
- Lower Emissions:
Every trainload between Southampton and London Gateway is one less stream of trucks on the M3/M25 corridor. Rail freight produces up to 76% fewer COâ‚‚ emissions than equivalent HGV journeys. - Operational Flexibility:
With both ports handling major deep-sea calls, the extra capacity allows containers to be repositioned more quickly. For hauliers, that means fewer empty road legs and faster box availability. - Resilience in the Network:
Shipping lines often divert vessels between Southampton and London Gateway depending on berthing windows. This service gives them, and their customers, a stronger buffer against disruption. - Commercial Opportunity for Hauliers:
While it reduces the need for long road hauls between the two ports, it can open up short-haul drayage opportunities from inland railheads, where operators still play a crucial role.
Industry Comment
DP World has positioned the move as a way to “support UK supply chains in the most sustainable way possible.” The new service also complements their investment in additional rail capacity at London Gateway, where rail now accounts for a significant and growing share of inland moves.
What operators should consider
- Routing decisions: If you serve customers with flexible port calls, ask whether rail between Southampton and Gateway could reduce waiting time for boxes.
- Haulage mix: Expect some shift from long-haul port-to-port runs to shorter first/last-mile legs.
- Customer comms: Highlight the environmental credentials—shippers are under pressure to decarbonise supply chains.
