Future Intermodal Terminal in Milan Receives First Three Gantry Cranes

Why It Matters

The new cranes accelerate Milan’s role as a central European rail hub, boosting capacity and reducing reliance on road transport. This strengthens cross‑border logistics and supports Europe’s shift toward greener freight solutions.

Key Takeaways

• First three of six gantry cranes installed at Milan terminal
• Terminal will handle 44 trains daily with 15 long tracks
• €120 million investment, €31 million for cranes, €67 million Swiss funding
• Joint venture TerAlp managed by FS Logistix and Hupac
• Upgrades also planned for Piacenza and Brescia terminals

Pulse Analysis

The Milano Smistamento intermodal terminal is emerging as a pivotal node in Italy’s rail freight network. With the first three electric gantry cranes now in place, the facility moves closer to its design capacity of six cranes across two modules. Once fully operational, the terminal will accommodate up to 44 train movements per day on 15 tracks that stretch at least 740 metres, streamlining transhipment between road and rail. This automation not only cuts handling times but also aligns with Europe’s push for greener, high‑speed freight corridors.

The €120 million project is financed largely by Swiss interests, with €67 million supplied by the Swiss government and €31 million earmarked for the gantry cranes themselves. This cross‑border funding underscores Switzerland’s strategy to secure rail capacity near its borders, ensuring that a larger share of Central European cargo travels by train rather than truck. By bolstering the Milan hub, the investment strengthens the north‑south axis that links the Mediterranean to the Alpine passes, promising faster transit times and reduced emissions for manufacturers and logistics providers across the continent.

The terminal will be operated by TerAlp, a joint venture between FS Logistix and Swiss carrier Hupac, reflecting a growing trend of collaborative ownership in European logistics. Beyond Milan, the partners are upgrading facilities in Piacenza and Brescia, expanding capacity in two of northern Italy’s key industrial corridors. Such coordinated investments are likely to be highlighted at the upcoming European Cargo Experience, where industry leaders will discuss multimodal integration and technology adoption. As rail freight gains market share, the Milan hub positions Italy as a critical gateway for trans‑European supply chains.