Ferrovalle selects INFORM for smart yard

Ferrovalle Intermodal has selected INFORM’s Syncrotess Optimization Plus platform to support a major smart yard automation initiative at its Mexico City rail freight hub, with go-live targeted for June 2027.

The project will extend automation across yard, equipment and train operations while operating alongside Ferrovalle’s existing in-house Terminal Operating System (TOS). The intermodal division handled around 550,000 teu in 2025, positioning the facility among Latin America’s largest inland intermodal operations.

“Smart Yard represents an important next step in Ferrovalle’s digital transformation and in our vision for the future of intermodal operations,” said Francisco Fabila, managing director of Ferrovalle.

“Our objective is clear: every train, every railcar, every container and every truck moving through our operation should have real-time digital visibility.”

Syncrotess Optimization Plus will use operational data from existing systems to generate continuously updated recommendations covering container storage, equipment deployment and train loading and discharge. The platform combines INFORM’s Yard Optimizer, Crane Optimizer, Vehicle Optimizer and Train Load Optimizer.

The initial optimised fleet will include eight RTG cranes, four reach stackers and 14 terminal tractors. Ferrovalle aims to increase equipment throughput, improve the proportion of billable moves and meet service-level targets for truck handling, train loading and train discharge.

The hybrid architecture is designed to complement rather than replace Ferrovalle’s existing TOS. Data exchanged between systems will include train consists, load plans, container status, clearance information and operational updates.

The project will cover separate customs-cleared and customs-controlled yards, while accounting for different processes for maritime and cross-border containers. Customs clearance will be incorporated into optimization decisions, with only containers confirmed as cleared by the TOS eligible for train loading.

“Ferrovalle already has a sophisticated digital infrastructure, so this project is not about replacing existing systems,” said Dr Eva Savelsberg, senior vice president, Terminal & Distribution Center Logistics at INFORM. “The task is to connect the available data with intelligent optimization and coordinate decisions across yard, equipment and train operations.”

Integration with the Equipment Control System will also enable automatic weight verification during crane lifts, while the Train Load Optimizer will automate train planning based on container availability, configurations, restrictions and clearance status.

The contract was signed in September 2026, with implementation expected to take approximately nine months.