Sometimes, simple yet effective solutions can significantly enhance rail freight transport. The Austrian railways, ÖBB, have introduced such a solution with their newly developed foldable interchangeable frame for pallets. While not a completely novel concept, ÖBB emphasizes that their product adheres to Europallet standards, making it unique.
This innovation emerged from feedback by various operators seeking to reduce the space occupied by empty pallets, thereby optimizing carriage usage. The new foldable frames, marked with the ÖBB logo and Eur coding, are compatible with 800 x 1200 Europallets and come in four different heights ranging from 10 to 40 cm. These frames prevent potential package falls and eliminate the need to wrap pallets. Additionally, they are reusable and can be exchanged just like Europallets.
ÖBB has had this product certified by SGS Germany, an independent company specializing in testing, inspection, and certification. The development of this product took into account the needs of ÖBB's customers, particularly the automotive industry, which requires standardized, high-quality carrying frames.
In essence, ÖBB has leveraged its legacy, as the Europallet standard with the original Eur mark within an oval has belonged to the current ÖBB Rail Cargo Group (RCG) since 1961. The company aims for widespread adoption of this Eur-standard foldable frame due to its practical advantages. In a statement, ÖBB has encouraged all manufacturers in the sector to apply for a license to offer a standardized, high-quality solution on the market.
Piermario Curti Sacchi
