FINNISH logistics company Nurminen Logistics has announced the start of a regular intermodal service carrying car parts from the Czech Republic to Kazakhstan, operating on the the Trans-Caspian route via Turkey, Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Also known as the Middle Corridor, this is the shortest route by rail between China and Europe, with consignments moving by ship across the Caspian Sea. Its attractiveness to shippers as an alternative to the northern route via Russia has increased following the invasion of Ukraine
Nurminen first began using the Trans-Caspian route in 2022 and says that it is well suited to the needs of modern logistics chains, where speed and low emissions play a significant role.
Working in partnership with Red Star Logistics, Nurminen ran the first test train carrying car parts and components in 40ft containers for Allur in January. The new service now runs monthly from Prague to the Allur plant in Kostanay, the site of the largest car manufacturing plant in Kazakhstan.
Allur is the official manufacturer and distributor of vehicles for brands including Škoda, Chevrolet and Kia.
"We have done a lot of work and operational development with different operators and ports to ensure a competitive delivery time and a functional connection,” says Marjut Linnajärvi, director of international rail traffic and sales at Nurminen Logistics.
