Around 1,400 sidings connect industrial and commercial companies, as well as logistics centres, to SBB’s rail network. Almost 90% of conventional rail goods transport involves the use of these sidings. They represent an important cornerstone for transferring freight from road to rail.

The following study of 6 April 2009 provides more detailed information (in German):

The federal law on sidings and the related sidings ordinance (both available in German, French and Italian) make up the legal framework for connecting business premises to the network. The federal government is responsible for up to 60% of the construction and renewal costs associated with this, subject to predetermined conditions.
The rights and responsibilities of SBB Infrastructure and the companies it works with are defined contractually. Supplementary contractual conditions have also been agreed with the railway companies. Background documents related to sidings are available below (in German).

For businesses, operationally reliable sidings represent an important success factor in the logistics process. Regular maintenance both guarantees that operations run smoothly and extends the lifespan of rails and vehicles. Our professional Sidings Service Centre helps to reduce the cost of follow-up investments while increasing the value of company property.