GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

full train

Railway operators and shippers use a full train when a single principal – shipper or consignee – occupies the entire train consist exclusively.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganzzug

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Definition & Explanation

Railway operators and shippers use a full train when a single principal – shipper or consignee – occupies the entire train consist exclusively. Every wagon is reserved for that one consignment; no third-party cargo is mixed in. This sets the full train apart from the block train, which also runs without intermediate shunting but may serve multiple shippers, and even more so from single wagon load traffic with its consolidated wagon composition. The model is most cost-effective for large, homogeneous volumes such as ore, coal, or automotive parts, where per-unit freight costs fall sharply with full utilisation. It also offers maximum scheduling and routing flexibility, since operations are not dependent on shunting sequences for other shipments.

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full train

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border terminal train clearance

connecting train

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Valencia Port Intermodal Connection Track

rail freight transport

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