On the Road to a Greener Future

Environmental Sustainability Through the RALPIN Traveling Highway Initiative

From March 2017 onwards, an innovative development was launched by our company: the so-called “Traveling Highway” initiative, an intriguing new transport model operated by RALPIN. The idea builds upon a core tenet of our commitment to environmental stewardship, aligning with the principles we’ve pursued for years. This very initiative has enabled Franzosini to lead the charge as the foremost Ticino company to obtain the renowned ISO 14001 environmental certification.

The Swiss Confederation’s ongoing policy to shift transportation demands from the road to rail is embodied by this new service. More specifically, it involves a combined traffic service wherein both road and railway modes are used, thereby embracing the eco-friendly objectives that have become increasingly essential in modern transport logistics.

A decision was made to capitalize on the unique attributes of the traveling highway service rather than the more conventional unaccompanied intermodal method. The latter entails loading only the semi-trailer, mobile box, or container onto the train without the tractor, whereas the traveling highway service incorporates a more holistic approach. This choice, allowing immediate continuation of transport once the train arrives at the terminal, led us toward this innovative option. The multifaceted advantage of having the driver with the vehicle on-site cannot be overlooked. It offers a nimble management system for vehicles and upholds the delivery commitments made to customers, thereby streamlining logistics like never before.

At present, the loading of one to four vehicles takes place daily at the Lugano-Vedeggio terminal. The convoy sets off at 20:45, arriving at the Basel terminal the next morning at precisely 05:00. This well-orchestrated operation yielded significant environmental benefits in the very first month.

A Leap Towards Sustainability, Efficiency, and Competitive Excellence

In March alone, the CO2 emissions saved were approximately 4,488 kg. This achievement signifies not only an economic advantage but a substantial contribution to global environmental efforts. Additionally, the combined traffic approach permits loading up to 44 tons. This facilitates cost containment related to the service. The solitary savings on the heavy traffic tax based on performance (TTPCP) and fuel are not alone sufficient to align the direct road service with the combined. Nevertheless, the present scenario lays the groundwork for a future where combined rail service may indeed stand toe-to-toe with conventional road service in competitiveness.

The advent of the traveling highway service is more than an operational milestone for Franzosini. It represents a tangible embodiment of the company’s long-standing commitment to environmental excellence and innovative transportation solutions. Franzosini stands proud in pioneering this initiative, a clear testament to our dedication to operating with integrity, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. The potential that this initiative holds for the future is immense, and we continue to explore its broad spectrum of benefits.

In the ever-evolving landscape of global logistics, Franzosini’s traveling highway service is not merely a step forward; it’s a leap towards a more sustainable, responsible, and competitive future. For the moment, this is how Franzosini is making its significant contribution, setting an example for others to follow.