BASF expands Ludwigshafen transport terminal to secure logistics

BASF has launched a major expansion of its combined transport terminal (KVT) in Ludwigshafen to improve logistics resilience. The project, which involves an investment of over 100 million euros, aims to better integrate road and rail transport to mitigate supply chain disruptions caused by low water levels on the Rhine.

Federal Transport Minister Steffen Bilger and BASF CEO Markus Kamieth officially marked the start of the project. The modernization includes replacing older handling modules with three new high-capacity cranes with spans exceeding 100 meters and optimizing truck access areas. The German government is providing 51 million euros in subsidies for the project, which is expected to be completed by 2028.

The terminal is one of Europe’s largest hubs for combined rail transport, handling over 1,100 loading units and up to 25 full trains daily. By strengthening the rail-road link, BASF seeks to secure the supply of raw materials, especially when river shipping is restricted. Approximately 40 percent of production in Ludwigshafen is currently transported via the Rhine.