What is Reserve Capacity (RC)?

Reserve capacity (RC) is an offer for international ad-hoc traffic along the corridor. It is provided as a contingent of “capacity slots” for international freight paths per day/section (flexible RC approach) as well as pre-defined sections in case of remaining capacity. In case of capacity slots the RC Calendar displays the capacity volume for international ad-hoc freight trains on a specific calendar day based on standard running times per corridor segment. Pre-defined sections on specific sections include set running times and parameters.

How to apply for capacity?

The C-OSS accepts capacity requests from railway undertakings, international groupings of railway undertakings and other persons or legal entities, such as shippers, freight forwarders and combined transport operators (in accordance with Article 15 of Regulation (EU) 913/2010).

All RFC capacity requests need to be submitted via the web application Path Coordination System (PCS), following the corresponding RC process. Via this RNE tool, the pre-coordination process between applicants and the coordination process with Infrastructure Managers/Allocation Body, under coordination of the C-OSS, is handled.

If you require more information on PCS as the unique tool for international RFC capacity, if you would like to apply for PCS user access or if you are looking for support in the ordering process, please contact the C-OSS manager.

How does the sales process look like?

The RC calendar for the upcoming timetable period will be published in October (X-2) in PCS and can be requested at least 30 days before the date of train run.