Case summary
TFG Transfracht is a DB Cargo subsidiary and a specialist in combined container transport. They had been operating for years on an outdated IBM i5 system that hindered innovation and was difficult to maintain. Together with LINKIT, TFG developed a new, modular Transport Management System (AMS) using the low-code platform OutSystems. Core processes such as bookings, order processing, and customs integration have now been fully digitized. The result: faster turnaround times, fewer errors, and a flexible, future-proof platform that enables further innovation.
The Challenge: Legacy Systems in a Complex Logistics Network
Each year, TFG Transfracht processes over 600,000 containers across a highly complex logistics network spanning Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland.
For decades, TFG relied on a monolithic IBM i5 (AS400) system to connect every link in its chain, from ports and customs authorities to rail operators and terminals. Although the system had proven its reliability, its limitations became increasingly apparent. With over 1.2 million lines of code and more than 30 years of use, the platform had become difficult to maintain, extend, or integrate with modern technologies.
“Rail transport is an extremely complex process — we collaborate with customers, ports, customs authorities, rail operators, terminals, freight forwarders, and shipping companies. No off-the-shelf software could handle that level of complexity.”
Previous modernization attempts had failed, and standard software couldn’t capture the nuances of TFG’s day-to-day operations. The company needed custom applications that could both support existing workflows and foster innovation.
The Approach: Co-Creation and Multidisciplinary Collaboration
After several successful proof-of-concepts, TFG chose to partner with LINKIT and leverage the OutSystems low-code platform to build an entirely new Transport Management System (TMS).
From the outset, TFG and LINKIT teams worked closely in agile, multidisciplinary sprints. Key functionalities from the old IBM system were analyzed and progressively replaced. This co-creative process encouraged constant feedback and fine-tuning, ensuring that the new applications aligned perfectly with TFG’s operational needs.
The Solution: From Monolith to Modular Architecture
Instead of building another large, monolithic application, TFG and LINKIT opted for a modular, services-oriented architecture, with OutSystems at its core. The low-code platform allows rapid application development without sacrificing performance or security. While remaining open to future integration with technologies like AI and IoT.
“We deliberately chose low-code because we believed in the efficiency gains of in-house software development. OutSystems has matched all our expectations.”
Core processes, including bookings, special transport requests, order processing, and arrival notifications, were digitized and automated. External integrations with ports, terminals, rail operators, and customs were fully rebuilt into the new Albatros Management System (AMS).
In parallel, TFG launched new self-service tools for customers. Within just three months, the Box2Rail platform was developed on OutSystems. Enabling SMEs to easily book, track, and manage shipments without service desk involvement.
The Results: Faster, Safer, and Future-Ready
Soon after implementation, the benefits were clear. The new system allows TFG to respond to market changes more flexibly and onboard new customers in a fraction of the time. Bookings that once took days can now be processed within minutes. Lead times have shortened, manual interventions have decreased, and order errors have been significantly reduced, saving both time and cost while improving reliability.
Together with DB Intermodal Service, TFG also built cloud-native applications for container depots and repair management. Mobile apps now support forklift drivers, inspectors, and maintenance staff in digital workflows, reducing human error and dramatically speeding up depot operations.
Technical debt has been drastically reduced, and reliance on external vendors has nearly vanished. AMS now serves over 150 employees through an intuitive interface. The internal IT team maintains the platform and develops applications up to five times faster than before.
The Future: Scalable Innovation and AI Integration
By adopting low-code, TFG has embraced a new way of working. Legacy constraints have given way to modular, scalable IT solutions that evolve with the organization.
Next on the roadmap: AI-powered automation. TFG is developing agent-based solutions that automatically convert customer emails into structured data, eliminating repetitive tasks, improving response times, and boosting customer satisfaction.
Strategic Impact: From Technical Upgrade to Digital Transformation
TFG’s transformation is far more than a technical modernization, it’s a strategic reinvention.
LINKIT played a pivotal role, not just as a technology provider but as a full-fledged co-innovation partner. By involving TFG deeply in development, the organization now has full ownership of its platform. Innovation is no longer limited by legacy systems but driven by modern technology.
For companies facing similar challenges, the lesson is clear: choose not just a builder, but a partner who thinks alongside you and understands your destination. The collaboration between TFG and LINKIT demonstrates what’s possible when technology, people, and partnership align, unlocking true digital potential through shared expertise.
