What does it really take to keep Europe's rail freight moving?

In this episode of Studio Ab Ovo, host Martijn Meerman speaks with Marcel Veenstra, Senior Business Consultant at Ab Ovo and one of the driving forces behind the continued evolution of Rail Cargo System (RCS). With more than 18 years at Ab Ovo, and eight years of experience at DB Cargo before that, Marcel offers a unique perspective on the intersection of rail logistics, technology, and long-term customer partnerships.

Rather than talking about software features alone, this conversation explores how successful digital transformation starts with understanding people and processes. Marcel explains why his role is as much about asking questions as it is about implementing technology, helping railway operators rethink long-standing habits and discover more efficient ways of working.

The discussion takes listeners inside the world of modern rail freight operations. From transport orders and train composition to automated invoicing, dangerous goods management and real-time train tracking, Marcel explains how RCS supports every stage of the rail logistics process while reducing manual work and improving data quality. He also shares why replacing endless email chains with shared, real-time information remains one of his personal ambitions for the future of rail freight.

The episode also highlights the close relationship between Ab Ovo and its customers. Built on trust, collaboration and years of shared experience, these partnerships allow new ideas to grow from practical challenges rather than technical specifications. As Marcel explains, the goal is never simply to replace an existing system; it is to help railway companies become more efficient, more competitive and better prepared for the future.

In this episode:

• Marcel's journey from DB Cargo to Ab Ovo
• Why customer relationships are at the heart of successful software
• How RCS supports the complete rail freight process—from order to invoice
• Reducing manual work through automation and real-time information
• The importance of challenging existing processes instead of digitizing old habits
• Integrating RCS with planning solutions such as RCP and APS
• The future of rail freight: fewer emails, better data and smarter collaboration
• Why railway companies should increasingly think of themselves as transport companies

Whether you're involved in rail freight, logistics, digital transformation or enterprise software, this episode offers valuable insights into how technology and human expertise work together to keep Europe's freight network moving.

🎙️ Listen now to discover how strong customer partnerships, deep industry knowledge and continuous innovation are shaping the future of rail logistics.

Our mission is to improve the operational processes, to support the sustainability targets, and enhance the profitability of our customers with more efficient resource usage and streamlined processes.

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