Rail freight operations at Tilbury and London Gateway are facing significant disruption following a freight train derailment at Barking on Friday 23 October 2026, with repairs to the railway infrastructure expected to continue throughout the week.
The incident involved a GB Railfreight container train travelling from London Gateway, which partially derailed near Barking station. The derailment caused extensive damage to the railway infrastructure, with approximately 1.2 kilometres of track requiring replacement.
The disruption has affected a key rail connection serving two of the UK’s major freight gateways.
How Are Tilbury and London Gateway Affected?
Forth Ports has advised that rail freight services will not operate at Tilbury or Tilbury2 during the week commencing 26 October.
Meanwhile, DP World has confirmed that London Gateway is operating a reduced rail freight service while repairs are carried out. The port is working with customers and Network Rail to minimise disruption.
Shipping line Hapag-Lloyd has also warned customers of potential delays to inland cargo movements, advising those using merchant haulage to arrange road transport as an alternative. Customers with existing carrier haulage bookings are being contacted to discuss alternative arrangements.
There is currently no confirmed date for the full restoration of normal rail freight operations.
What Does This Mean for UK Importers and Exporters?
The disruption could affect businesses moving containers through Tilbury and London Gateway, particularly those relying on rail connections to inland terminals and distribution centres.
With rail capacity restricted, more cargo may need to be transported by road, potentially increasing demand for available hauliers and affecting collection and delivery schedules.
Customers could experience:
- Delays to inland container movements and deliveries.
- Increased demand for road haulage as an alternative to rail.
- Potential pressure on container collection slots and transport availability.
- Additional transport costs where alternative arrangements are required.
Although rail services have been affected, the disruption does not mean that the ports themselves are closed to vessel or road operations.
When Will Services Return to Normal?
Recovery work is ongoing, with engineers working to repair the damaged track and restore services safely.
Given the extent of the damage, disruption is expected to continue over the coming days. However, a firm date for the resumption of normal rail freight services has not yet been announced.
Businesses with shipments moving through either port are advised to review their transport arrangements and allow additional flexibility where possible.
Beckchoice continues to monitor developments affecting UK port operations and inland freight movements. If you have concerns about an upcoming shipment through Tilbury or London Gateway, our team is available to discuss your requirements and available transport options.
References
- The Loadstar – No Rail Freight from London Gateway and Tilbury After Storms
- Hapag-Lloyd – UK Rail Services to and from London Gateway Suspended Due to Train Derailment
- c2c – Barking Freight Train Derailment: Advice for Customers
Disclaimer: Information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of 29 October 2026. Operational conditions may change at short notice. Customers should confirm the latest arrangements with their freight provider or relevant terminal operator.