What is Onrail?
Onrail is a privately owned train company that operates freight trains from Oslo and Åndalsnes every evening, Sunday through Thursday. They’ve got the locomotives and freight cars needed to keep things moving smoothly. The team behind Onrail includes train drivers with a combined 50 years of experience running freight trains across Norway. But it’s not just about driving the trains—skilled terminal workers play a crucial role too, loading and unloading cargo efficiently. Onrail has invested in brand new reach stackers—those big trucks that lift containers and semi-trailers on and off freight cars—with a lifting capacity of 45 tons. The freight trains themselves can weigh up to a whopping 1,000 tons. Pretty impressive, right?
Main Benefits of Onrail’s Service
Here’s a quick snapshot of what makes Onrail stand out:
- Operates freight trains from Oslo and Åndalsnes every evening, Sunday to Thursday
- Train drivers with a combined 50 years of experience
- Brand new reach stackers with 45-ton lifting capacity
- Freight trains weighing up to 1,000 tons
- Privately owned, no state subsidies—quality and price must be competitive
- Focus on environmental sustainability by reducing road freight
Onrail’s Unique Position in the Market
Unlike many other train companies, Onrail doesn’t rely on state subsidies. That means they have to be sharp—offering competitive prices and top-notch quality to convince freight customers to choose rail over trucks. It’s a tough market, but Onrail’s entrepreneurial spirit and lean management keep them agile. Plus, with authorities pushing for stricter environmental rules in transport, Onrail is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for greener logistics solutions.
Environmental Commitment and Expertise
Transporting goods in and out of Møre and Romsdal has traditionally been dominated by trucks and semi-trailers. The Raumabanen railway, which runs alongside the European road, hasn’t seen freight traffic for years. But Onrail’s founders bring a strong environmental commitment and deep knowledge of railways and transport. They’re not just talking about protecting the environment—they’re taking action. Their goal? To annually remove 10,000 semi-trailers from the busy European road routes through Gudbrandsdalen and Romsdalen. That’s a big step toward cleaner, more sustainable freight transport.
Investing in Modern Equipment
Onrail’s investment in brand new reach stackers is a game-changer. These powerful machines can lift containers and semi-trailers weighing up to 45 tons, making loading and unloading faster and safer. This modern equipment supports the company’s ability to handle heavy freight trains—up to 1,000 tons in weight—efficiently and reliably. It’s all part of Onrail’s commitment to quality service and operational excellence.
Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Enhancing sustainable transport infrastructure
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Reducing road congestion and pollution
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Promoting efficient freight transport
- SDG 13: Climate Action – Lowering carbon emissions by shifting freight from road to rail
Looking Ahead: The Future of Freight Transport
Onrail’s approach shows how private companies can lead the way in sustainable freight transport. By combining experience, modern equipment, and a strong environmental focus, they’re setting new standards in Norway’s logistics sector. As stricter environmental regulations come into play and businesses seek greener options, Onrail is ready to meet the challenge. It’s not just about moving goods—it’s about moving toward a cleaner, more efficient future.
