RailFreight.com – what changes with the updated GCU 2026

We were happy to provide answers to RailFreight.com about the updated version of the General Contract of Use for Wagons (GCU), officially published on 1 January 2026.

In a nutshell: the 2026 version of the GCU is supposed to be understood as an empowerment for RUs, while maintaining the Wagon Keeper’s fundamental responsibilities. The amendments thus balance duties fairly between both parties through clearer interfaces and information exchanges. For more information, check out our news item here.

Please find the published article on RailFreight.com and also available for download here to the right of this page.