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Dematic, in collaboration with the Belgian general contractor Alheembouw, has begun the construction of a high-bay warehouse and an AutoStore™ system for the new logistics center of the Belgian National Railway NMBS. The facility, currently being built in Mechelen, will serve as a central hub for the maintenance, repair, and modernization of the rail fleet. The use of a brownfield site also promotes sustainable land use.
Egon Braem, Head of Industry at Alheembouw, emphasizes that Dematic’s thoughtful solution has enabled the optimization of the design of the new office building and the manual warehouse. This has given the company an advantage in the bidding process and contributed to the selection of Alheembouw and Dematic as the preferred partner team by NMBS.
With the new construction, NMBS aims to modernize outdated structures, some of which date back to World War II, and to future-proof operations. Following a public tender, the decision in 2025 favored Alheembouw, with Dematic being involved early in the project process due to its experience in integrating AutoStore™ systems.
Efficient storage and modern technology
The centerpiece of the new facility is a high-bay warehouse equipped with six stacker cranes, reaching a height of 45 meters and a length of 120 meters. In a double-deep storage configuration, over 48,000 pallet spaces will be created, allowing for space-efficient storage of large quantities of goods. Additionally, three directly connected picking stations are planned to ensure fast processes for providing spare parts.
Furthermore, an AutoStore™ system will be installed on a mezzanine level. This solution allows for the storage of a wide variety of items in minimal space and reduces internal transport distances. With over 17,000 containers and four SwingPort™ workstations operated by six robots, high efficiency in warehouse operations is targeted.
Both systems are interconnected through Dematic’s Warehouse Control System, ensuring a seamless material flow and real-time control of all processes. This is intended to maintain high system performance throughout the logistics center.
Farly Orie, Head of the Benelux Market at Dematic, emphasizes that the project sets new standards in rail logistics. The combination of the high-bay warehouse and AutoStore™ system increases the availability and reliability of spare parts logistics. Additionally, the higher storage density allows for more efficient use of space and resources throughout the entire lifecycle.
The automation of the warehouse is already well advanced, and the completion of the overall project, including a new office building, is planned for 2027. Alheembouw is responsible for the overall implementation of the construction project, which specializes in new construction and renovation projects in public, commercial, and industrial infrastructure.
