Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions of Carriage for Use of the “Urlaubs-Express,” a product of Train4you Vertriebs GmbH

Effective as of February 13, 2025

Publisher: Train4you Vertriebs GmbH, Kolumbastraße 5, 50667 Cologne
(hereinafter referred to as “Train4you”)

1. Scope of Application/Preliminary Remarks

These Terms and Conditions of Carriage apply to the transportation of passengers, as well as passengers and their vehicles (passenger cars with or without trailers, motorcycles with or without sidecars, trikes, and quads, as well as bicycles, e-bikes, and pedelecs). The vehicles are transported by rail in open railcars from the loading station terminal to the destination station terminal. The carriage of vehicles is subject to the legal provisions governing luggage in accordance with the “Uniform Rules concerning the Contract for the International Carriage of Passengers and Luggage by Rail (CIV)” as set forth in Annex I to “Regulation (EU) 2021/782 of the European Parliament and of the Council of April 29, 2021, on the rights and obligations of rail passengers.” In these Conditions of Carriage, the term “Customer” refers to the natural person making the booking as the contracting party to the contract of carriage. The term “Passenger” refers to the Customer and all other persons for whom the Customer has made a booking and whom the Customer has named.

2. Subject Matter and Conclusion of the Contract of Carriage

2.1 Scope of the Contract

Under the contract of carriage, Train4you, as the contractual carrier, undertakes to transport passengers and, if applicable, their motor vehicles to the agreed destination in accordance with the concluded contract of carriage. The terms of the contract are documented in the tickets or reservation receipts (transportation documents) issued by the carrier. Contracts of carriage for multiple routes may be set forth on a single transportation document; however, they are to be considered legally independent of one another even in such cases. The ticket(s) for the passenger(s) may be supplemented by reservation receipts for seating on the train. The tickets issued by Train4you for the Urlaubs-Express are under no circumstances through tickets.

2.2 Booking

Bookings may be submitted to Train4you in writing, by phone, by fax, or electronically (via email or the Internet at www.urlaubs-express.de). The contract of carriage is concluded upon confirmation of the successful booking by Train4you. The customer receives this confirmation in the form of an invoice that lists all service details and contractual components, including, in particular, any registered vehicle with the data and dimensions specified in the booking request. These may be sent to the customer either by mail or electronically via email. If Train4you additionally sends a confirmation of receipt for a booking, this does not constitute confirmation of the successful booking or an invoice.

2.3 Travel Agents

Travel agents (e.g., travel agencies) are not authorized by Train4you to enter into agreements, provide information, or make representations that alter the agreed-upon terms of the contract of carriage, go beyond the services contractually promised by the carrier, or contradict the advertised transportation services.

3. Transportation Documents, Customer Responsibilities, Environmental Zones

3.1 Transportation Documents

The transportation documents will be provided either by email or, at the customer’s request and for a fee, in writing by mail after full payment of the fare. The documents explicitly list all services to be provided by Train4you. The transportation documents contain all relevant information regarding departure and arrival times as well as loading times as defined in these Terms and Conditions and must be checked by the customer for accuracy immediately upon receipt, particularly with regard to the specified vehicle dimensions. Any discrepancies must be reported to Train4you immediately. Subsequent objections, particularly after the trip has been completed, cannot be considered. The documents must be presented to the staff upon request at any time, either at the start of the trip or during the trip. The validity period of the transportation documents is determined by the reservation details specified on the documents. Reservations are valid only on the designated travel date for the booked train or for the booked vehicle transport.

3.2 Customer Obligations

The customer is required to provide the first and last names of all additional passengers included in the reservation at the time of booking. Changes to additional passengers after the reservation has been made are governed by Section 5.4. The customer is required to truthfully and accurately provide the information required for the booking regarding vehicle dimensions (height, length, width with side mirrors folded in, as specified in the vehicle registration certificate or corresponding registration documentation), vehicle type (e.g., convertible), vehicle weight, the license plate number, and details regarding roof and rear racks approved for the intended purpose truthfully and correctly. If this information is inaccurate, Train4you may refuse to transport the vehicle; in this case, the customer may not assert any claims for damages. Additional grounds for exclusion are summarized in Section 6. Information regarding loading times is printed on the transportation documents. The passenger must be on board the train no later than the train’s departure time specified on the transportation documents. If the customer has also booked car transport, they are required to arrive at the auto train terminal with their vehicle no later than the time specified on the transportation documents or within the time period indicated therein. If the customer does not arrive at the car train terminal on time, their right to have the vehicle transported expires. In this case, the customer may not assert any claims for damages. On the train, the personal information provided by the customer and listed in the tickets is verified using the passenger’s official photo ID, which the passenger must present. In the event of misuse, the passenger is considered to be traveling without valid tickets, which results in the charging of an increased fare (twice the current daily fare for the respective travel date). The increased fare must be paid immediately to the train conductor in cash or by credit card. Train4you reserves the right to block the customer from making further bookings with Train4you. If the customer has forgotten their travel documents at the start of the journey, the same rules generally apply; however, the increased fare is reduced to 7 euros if the customer provides proof within one week of the start of the journey that they were in possession of a valid ticket at the time of departure.

3.2.1 Consequences of Incorrect (Too Low) Vehicle Weight Specifications

While incorrect or underestimated information provided by the customer regarding the vehicle’s width and height will, in individual cases, inevitably result in exclusion from transport due to the design of the car carriers and the nature of the rail line, in the event of incorrect or underestimated weight information, the loading staff will attempt to within reasonable limits and taking into account the legitimate interests of other passengers at the loading terminal, to redistribute the vehicles still to be loaded among the remaining available spaces in such a way that the permissible gross weight of each individual car carrier can be adhered to. For this additional effort, Train4you will charge a fee of €35 in the event of a successful resolution, in accordance with Section 5.5; this fee is to be paid on site in cash or by credit card.

3.2.2 Conduct Toward Train Crew Members

Passengers must follow the instructions of the train crew. Failure to do so may result in removal from the train. No refund will be given for the portion of the trip not completed. The customer is also responsible for the cost of having their vehicle transported back, as it can only be unloaded at the respective destination for operational reasons.

3.3 Environmental Zones

Where so-called low-emission zones have been established in certain cities, driving into and through these cities is permitted only with an “emissions sticker.” An overview of the low-emission zones in Germany is available, for example, on the website of the Federal Environment Agency at http://gis.uba.de/website/umweltzonen/umweltzonen.php. Vehicles without an “emissions sticker” may use the car-on-train terminals located in these cities only in accordance with the regulations of those cities. The driver is responsible for complying with these regulations. If a violation of the requirement to use the designated routes causes delays in loading or unloading a car train, or if, as a result, travel on a car train is not possible, the driver shall indemnify Train4you against all resulting claims. In particular, an extension of the loading times is not possible.

3.4 Munich South Terminal

For passengers and their companions whose trip begins or ends at Munich South, the following applies due to the station’s architectural design:

A distinction is made between the passenger platform (Track 25) and the car-carrying train terminal (Track 49). The two locations are connected by a public road with a sidewalk outside the railway premises, spanning approximately 250 meters. Use of the public roadway is at your own risk. Train4you assumes no liability for accidents, damage, or loss of luggage or other items carried by the customer and their companions along this route. Train4you recommends that customers and their companions use the route along Thalkirchner Straße indicated on the Urlaubs-Express website (https://urlaubs-express.de/terminals-und-fahrzeugmasse/). Before checking in at Hamburg (southbound) or the Munich Car-Carrying Train Terminal (northbound), customers must familiarize themselves with local conditions on the Urlaubs-Express website and set out on the journey in a timely manner at their own discretion. Train4you assumes no liability for late arrival at the passenger platform after vehicle loading (northbound trips). For southbound trips, customers and their accompanying persons must proceed immediately to the car-carrying train terminal for unloading upon arrival at the passenger platform. Persons who fall under the provisions of § 229, SGB IX must notify Train4you of this at the time of booking, but no later than 14 days before the scheduled train trip.

3.5 Diesel Vehicles

The provisions in Section 3.3 also apply mutatis mutandis to current or future restrictions imposed by local, state, or federal authorities, as well as by foreign authorities, on diesel vehicles.

4. Transportation of Passengers, Vehicles, Animals, and Luggage

Train4you transports passengers and their vehicles on domestic and international routes. Vehicles may include passenger cars with or without trailers, motorcycles with or without sidecars, as well as trikes and quads, in addition to bicycles, e-bikes, and pedelecs. The transport of animals is limited to dogs and cats (see Section 4.9). Transport is provided only subject to available space. Train4you may commission other licensed companies to carry out the operational aspects of the trip. To the extent that Train4you merely acts as an intermediary for third-party services, those third parties’ terms and conditions apply.

4.1. Transportation of Passengers

Train4you reserves seats in seating cars, couchette cars, and sleeper cars on its trains for passengers according to their respective reservations. In seating and couchette cars, both individual seat reservations and compartment reservations are offered; in sleeper cars, only compartment reservations are available. For individual seat reservations, seats are not separated by gender. With an individual seat reservation, a maximum of one child under three years of age may travel free of charge. With a compartment reservation, a maximum of two children under three years of age may travel free of charge per compartment. The price for booking a couchette compartment for exclusive use applies to a maximum of four people, including children over three years of age. In sleeper cars, only compartment bookings are offered.

4.1.1 Smoking Ban

Smoking is strictly prohibited throughout the entire train. Violations of the smoking ban will always result in removal from the train. Train4you charges a fee of €1,500 for fire alarm system alerts triggered by smoking. Train4you charges a fee of €200 for additional cleaning costs resulting from smoking in the compartments or aisles. Violations of the smoking ban are considered administrative offenses under Section 5(2) of the Federal Non-Smoker Protection Act (BNichtRSchG) and will be reported to the authorities.

4.2 Transportation of Vehicles

Vehicles are transported in open vehicle transport cars (rail cars). As a general rule, only vehicles that are registered for use on public roads (StVO) and are roadworthy may be transported. The following vehicles are eligible for transport:

• Passenger cars (as defined by the StVO) with or without trailers,
• Motorcycles with and without sidecars,
• Trikes and Quads
• Bicycles (two-wheeled, non-motorized)
• E-bikes and Pedelecs

4.2.1 Driver’s Responsibilities

The driver agrees to take all necessary precautions with respect to the vehicle to prevent damage (to his or her own vehicle, to other vehicles, as well as to railway vehicles or the property of other third parties). This includes, in particular:

• closing and locking the sunroof or, in the case of convertibles, the folding roof
• closing the ventilation dampers and windows
• retracting the antenna or removing roof antennas and non-retractable antennas, and folding in the side mirrors
• Securing wind deflectors, exterior blinds, and other vehicle attachments, as well as luggage, bicycles, sports equipment, etc., to prevent them from being torn off by the wind while driving; alternatively, removing these items before loading
• adequate protection of water-bearing systems against frost
• Load securing that meets the requirements of railroad operations. Trailers carrying a load must be enclosed with a matching tarp (lower loading level) or a hard plastic or metal shell (upper loading level). The decision regarding the suitability of vehicles for transport rests with the on-site loading supervisor.

The use of vehicle covers to protect the vehicles is not permitted. However, the use of a specially fitted tarp that belongs to the vehicle is permitted. After the vehicle has been loaded, the ignition must be turned off and the ignition key removed. The parking brake must be applied, and first gear must be engaged. For vehicles with automatic transmissions, the gear selector must be set to “P” or—if specified by the manufacturer—to “0.” Windows, doors, the roof, and soft tops must be closed; the vehicles must be locked. Since it is possible to transport the vehicles in reverse for the entire route or for portions of the route (changing direction of travel), the safety measures must be adapted accordingly. In particular, all (attached) parts on the vehicle that cannot withstand the stresses of such backward transport must be removed before the journey begins. To protect motorcycle windshields from damage during possible transport against the natural direction of travel, the customer must secure the windshield with a windshield securing strap. The customer is responsible for ensuring that their vehicle is suitable for reverse transport at speeds up to 140 km/h.

4.2.2 Vehicle Restrictions

In addition to the driver’s seat, vehicles may have no more than eight additional seats. Each vehicle must be accompanied by at least one adult with a valid driver’s license (driver). The total number of people permitted in the vehicle is determined by the number of seats listed on the vehicle registration certificate.

4.3 Bicycles, E-Bikes, and Pedelecs

Bicycles, e-bikes, and pedelecs can be booked and loaded separately, subject to space availability. There is a fee for bicycle transport. Cargo bikes, specialty bikes, or two-track bicycles are excluded from transport. The rules governing the transport of bicycles, e-bikes, and pedelecs secured to the vehicle on luggage racks are set forth in Sections 4.12 and 4.13. Liability for damage to or loss of bicycles is governed by the provisions in sections 4.7 and 4.10, mutatis mutandis. It is prohibited to charge batteries for e-bikes and pedelecs using the power outlets on the train.

4.4 Vehicle Dimensions

Vehicle dimensions, particularly the maximum height, may vary by destination (see Appendix 1). Train4you will provide specific information regarding this on the Urlaubs-Express product homepage (www.urlaubs-express.de). The following restrictions generally apply to the transport of vehicles on vehicle transport cars:

• The vehicle’s ground clearance (even when fully loaded) must be at least 11 cm
• Permissible total width of the vehicle as published on the Urlaubs-Express website (www.urlaubs-express.de) and in Appendix 1; measured with the side mirrors folded in
• Maximum total height of the vehicle as published on the Urlaubs-Express website (www.urlaubs-express.de) and in Appendix 1;
• Maximum total length of the vehicle: 530 cm
• A maximum of nine passenger seats (including the driver’s seat)
• Maximum length for vehicles with trailers: 10 meters
• Maximum loading height for trailers: 155 cm.

4.4.1 Loading of Vehicles, Driver Responsibilities, Safety Regulations

Vehicles must be ready for loading at the designated Autozug terminal within the loading times specified in the shipping documents. The shipping documents must be presented to the loading staff at the loading terminal. Vehicles arriving at the car train terminal after the loading time has expired cannot be transported. Unless otherwise instructed by on-site personnel, the loading and unloading of vehicles—and, if necessary, any required transfer to the vehicle transport trailer—is generally the responsibility of the driver at their own risk. Due to the design of the loading area, the space for vehicles is bounded on the sides by guide rails spaced 1,940 mm apart. Train4you is not liable for damage to vehicle rims and tires caused by contact with the guide rails. To better prevent damage, the company offers, upon the driver’s request and free of charge, to guide the driver to the final parking position. The loading staff may instruct the driver to drive along one side of the safety rail or to use other aids to prevent damage. Train4you is liable for any damage occurring during loading or unloading only in cases of its own fault or in cases of fault on the part of Train4you’s agents. The driver must exit the car carrier immediately after the vehicle has been loaded. If, in exceptional cases, a member of the loading crew handles the driving onto and off the carrier, the driver must sign a “liability release form.” The instructions of the loading crew must be strictly followed. The driver must exercise due care during the loading process. This includes moving the vehicles onto the car carrier at walking speed. During loading and unloading, no one other than the driver may be inside or on top of the vehicle. Since specific parking spaces are assigned based on the vehicle’s dimensions and weight, we cannot guarantee that requests to change parking spaces will be accommodated.

4.4.1.1 Failure to Start at the Destination

If, during unloading at the destination, the vehicle cannot be started under its own power due to a dead battery resulting from a violation of Section 4.2.1, Train4you may, subject to availability, provide the driver with a jump start to minimize delays in unloading other vehicles and consequential damages to Train4you resulting from disruptions to operations. It is the driver’s responsibility to start the vehicle using the jump start. The driver may delegate this task to the loading crew. In this case, Train4you and its agents are not liable for any damage to the vehicle incurred during the attempt to start it.

4.4.2 Helmet Requirement

Motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet when loading and unloading their motorcycle onto the vehicle transport trailer.

4.5 Hazardous Substances

Carrying hazardous materials (in particular, highly flammable, combustible, or explosive substances) is prohibited, with the exception of fuel necessary for operating the vehicle. Carrying fuel is permitted only for passenger cars and is limited to one spare fuel can with a maximum capacity of 20 liters. For motorcycles, carrying spare fuel cans—even empty ones—is prohibited. Shut-off valves for fuel lines must be closed. All fuel lines must be leak-proof, as must the fuel tanks, which must be securely closed. While vehicles are on railway premises, fuel may neither be removed nor added.

4.6 Parking the Vehicle

Once the vehicles have been parked, access to them is not permitted after they have been loaded or before they are unloaded—especially during transport. Neither people nor animals may remain in the vehicles during transport. Upon arrival, the vehicles will be unlocked by the loading crew. Entry into the car carriers is permitted only after authorization by the loading crew and only by the vehicle operator. Train4you advises that entering the car carriers while the overhead lines are energized poses a risk to life and limb. When driving off the car carrier, the vehicle operator is subject to the obligations set forth in Section 4.4.1.

4.7. Vehicle Damage

The driver must report any damage to vehicles caused during transport to the loading crew immediately upon discovery, or at the latest upon unloading, and have the damage documented in writing. Claims for damage cannot be filed after leaving the car train terminal.

4.8 Liability of the Driver

If the driver violates the obligations set forth in sections 4.2.1 through 4.6 above and thereby causes damage, the driver shall be liable to both Train4you and third parties for any damages resulting from such violation.

4.9 Transport of Pets

With the exception of dogs and cats, animals are generally not permitted on board. Dogs and cats are permitted on board provided they do not have any contagious diseases, a compartment has been booked for each animal’s exclusive use, and the animal was registered at the time of booking. Furthermore, dogs or cats may only be brought on board under the following conditions: Dogs that are not housed in containers such as carry-on luggage may only be brought on board if they are kept on a leash outside the compartment and are wearing a muzzle suitable for them. Guide dogs and service dogs as defined in Section 145(2)(2) of SGB IX are exempt from the muzzle requirement. Cats may be brought on board only if they pose no danger and are housed in containers such as carry-on luggage. The containers must be designed in such a way that they do not pose a risk to people or property. For hygiene reasons, animals are not permitted to use sleeping berths, reclining seats, or regular seats. In cars with dining facilities, animals—with the exception of guide dogs and service dogs as defined in Section 145(2)(2) of SGB IX—may not be brought on board. The customer is personally responsible for complying with any official requirements (in particular veterinary requirements in the case of cross-border travel). Please note that animals may not be left alone in the compartment and that the train does not stop during the journey. Train4you reserves the right to charge an additional fee of €50 per one-way trip, in addition to the ticket price for the animal, to cover any damage caused by the animal or increased cleaning costs.

4.10. Carriage of Baggage and Other Items

In general, the customer is solely responsible for complying with any customs and administrative regulations and obligations. Luggage may be left on, in, or attached to the vehicles during transport on a car train. However, only approved, commercially available, permanently mounted roof boxes or racks may be transported on the vehicle. In this regard, the provisions in Section 4.2 et seq. must be observed. The driver must ensure that items are securely lashed down and that the permissible load dimensions are observed. Attaching items such as surfboards, Christmas trees, winter sports equipment, cabinets, etc., to the roof rails is not permitted. Luggage attached to motorcycles may remain on the motorcycle if the luggage forms a single, solid unit, the items are securely attached to the motorcycle, and no anchor points required for securing the load are obstructed. Motorcycle helmets must not remain on the motorcycle during the train ride. Please note that the motorcycles are transported on open car carriers. Security is not provided. Train4you is therefore not liable for acts of third parties for which it is not responsible (burglary in train cars and vehicles, vandalism, etc.) nor for damage to or loss of luggage left in or on the vehicle. Train4you is liable only in cases of its own negligence or in cases of negligence by Train4you’s agents. It is recommended that you purchase additional insurance coverage.

4.11 Transporting Roof Racks

Roof racks or roof boxes are permitted only if they are commercially available (not homemade), approved, permanently mounted roof boxes or roof racks, and provided that the total height of the passenger car permitted on the car carrier is not exceeded. Roof racks and roof boxes must be declared at the time of booking. For safety and loading reasons, the loading staff may instruct the customer to remove roof racks or roof boxes from the vehicle. Train4you is authorized to load roof boxes onto the car carrier separately from the vehicle.

4.12 Transporting Bicycles on Rear Racks

Bicycles on rear bike racks may only be transported if the bicycles do not exceed the total vehicle height and total vehicle width specified at the time of booking. Otherwise, the provisions of Section 4.11 apply to rear racks as well. Bicycles stored inside the vehicle may be transported without restriction, provided they are adequately secured.

4.13 Transporting E-Bikes and Pedelecs on Rear Bike Racks

In addition to Section 4.12, the following applies to the transport of e-bikes and pedelecs on rear racks:

1.) For rear-mounted bike racks, the driver must, upon request, present the loading staff with a General Operating Permit (ABE) from the manufacturer or the TÜV prior to loading, which specifies the permissible load weight of the rear-mounted bike rack. If the driver is unable to present the ABE, the loading staff may refuse to transport the vehicle. The customer has no right to claim damages arising from such a refusal.

2.) The loading crew may, at their discretion, take additional measures to secure the load on the rear rack or load the e-bikes or pedelecs separately.

3.) Batteries must be removed from the e-bike or pedelec and stored in the driver’s car.

5. Fare, Payment, Rescheduling, Cancellation

5.1 Transportation Fee

The transportation fee varies depending on travel dates, booking date, vehicle type, and type of accommodations, and consists of the transportation fee for passengers and, if applicable, the transportation fee for the vehicle. The fare includes a non-refundable system fee of 25 EUR per booking and one-way trip.

5.1.1 Children’s Discount

Children 3 years of age and younger travel free of charge when accompanied by a paying adult, provided they do not occupy their own seat or bed. Special children’s rates apply to children ages 4 through 14.

5.1.2 Discounts for Persons Accompanying People with Disabilities

A necessary companion as indicated on a disability ID card (Category B) travels free of charge. This applies only to single-seat reservations in a couchette car. No further discounts are granted. No discount is granted for the person with a disability. For compartment bookings in couchette or sleeper cars, the current compartment rate applies. Bookings can only be made by phone or in writing (fax, letter, email), but not via the Internet. Seating cars, sleeper cars, and couchette cars, as well as any on-board restaurant or club cars on Train4you trains, are currently only partially accessible to passengers with limited mobility. In particular, the width of the side aisles and the dimensions of the restrooms do not allow for wheelchair access. For this reason, it is essential that passengers with limited mobility be accompanied by an assistant when traveling on the Urlaubs-Express. Upon request, Train4you will assist in arranging boarding and alighting assistance, provided such services are available at the departure and arrival stations.

5.2 Payment

5.2.1 Payment Terms (I)

If the total invoice amount exceeds €500, a deposit equal to 30% of the transportation fee and other services is due within 14 days of receipt of the written booking confirmation/invoice. The down payment includes the non-refundable system fee specified in Section 5.1. The down payment will be applied toward the transportation fee. The balance must be paid—without further notice—no later than 28 days before the travel date. If Train4you does not receive the 30% deposit of the transportation fee within the specified period, the entire transportation fee becomes due immediately.

5.2.2 Payment Deadline (II)

Provided that the total invoice amount does not exceed €500, the full fare, including any insurance (e.g., trip cancellation insurance), is due within 28 days of receipt of the written booking confirmation/invoice. For last-minute bookings—where there are fewer than 28 days between the booking date and the travel date—the full transportation fee is due immediately.

5.2.3 Consequences of Default

If the full down payment/balance (Section 5.2.1) or total amount (Section 5.2.2) is not paid within the deadlines specified on the booking confirmation/invoice (see above) and is not paid even after a request setting a deadline and threatening cancellation, Train4you is entitled to terminate the contract without notice and cancel the booking. In this case, Train4you may claim the costs to be calculated in accordance with Section 5.3 as compensation for damages, provided that there is not already a valid ground for withdrawal in favor of the customer at that time. Without full payment of the fare, there is no entitlement to the provision of transportation services.

5.2.4 Payee

Payments must be made exclusively to the recipient listed on the invoice, citing the invoice number. If the amount is paid to someone else, the payment is made at the payer’s own risk and therefore entitles the recipient to use the transportation service only after Train4you has received the full fare. Payments are accepted exclusively by bank transfer.

5.2.5 Credit Memos

Any credits (e.g., for rebooked or canceled tickets (see Sections 5.3 and 5.4)) will be issued exclusively to an account designated by the customer for this purpose.

5.3 Cancellations by the Customer

The customer is entitled to cancel the contract of carriage in its entirety or specific services thereof in writing until the start of the trip. The cancellation notice, signed by the customer, must be sent by mail or email to the following address: Train4you Vertriebs GmbH, Kolumbastraße 5, 50667 Cologne, Germany, or info@train4you.de. Once the booking confirmation has been received, a free (partial) cancellation is no longer possible. In the event of a (partial) cancellation, reasonable compensation will be charged for the arrangements made and expenses incurred. The date Train4you receives the cancellation notice is decisive for calculating the cancellation fee. The (partial) cancellation fee applies to all booked services, in particular passenger transport, animal transport, vehicle transport, shortening of the travel route, and catering services. Compartment bookings can only be canceled in their entirety; the non-attendance of booked passengers does not entitle the customer to a refund in the case of a compartment booking. The cancellation fee is calculated as follows, after deduction of the system fee:

Up to 90 days before departure	20% of the fare or the price of the partial service
89 to 42 days before departure	35% of the fare or the price of the partial service
41 to 28 days before departure	50% of the fare or the price of the partial service
27 to 14 days before departure	60% of the fare or the price of the partial service
13 to 4 days before departure	70% of the fare or the price of the partial service
Starting 3 days before departure or in case of no-show	90% of the fare or the price of the partial service

The remaining fare will be refunded upon the customer’s request. The fare will be refunded in full only if the customer is unable to make the trip for reasons attributable to Train4you. Any further claims for damages are excluded.

5.4 Changes to Booked Services (Rebooking by the Customer)

Changes to booked passenger transportation services are permitted only in the cases listed below, provided that the seating capacity required for the requested change is still available and Train4you receives the written request for the change before the actual travel date:

1. a) Changing the seating assignment on the train

It is possible to rebook from a lower booking class to a higher one. The processing fee for such a rebooking is €35 per leg. In addition, the difference between the original accommodation price and the current daily accommodation price in the new category must be paid. Special on-board rates apply to rebookings made on the train. Rebookings from a higher to a lower booking class are considered partial cancellations. In this case, the provisions of Section 5.3 apply mutatis mutandis.

1. b) Rescheduling of the travel date and/or route

Rescheduling of the travel date and/or route may be done once up to 14 days before the train’s departure, provided that seats are available on the alternative travel date. The new travel date must not be more than four weeks before or after the original travel date. It is essential to ensure that there are at least seven days between the date of the change and the new travel date. A processing fee of €35 per leg and per transaction will be charged for such a change. In addition, the original fare will be refunded, and the new, current fare will be charged in addition to the processing fee.
Shortening the booked route, other changes, failure to board the train, or cancellation are considered cancellations in accordance with Section 5.3.

1. c) Changes in the list of participating passengers

The customer must notify Train4you in writing of any changes to the passengers included in the booking immediately upon becoming aware of the change. A change is defined as substituting one person for another under the booking terms and conditions of the person who is no longer participating. Train4you charges a processing fee of €35 for this change. The travel of passengers not named on the booking is considered travel without valid tickets in accordance with Section 3.2.

5.5 Changes to the Vehicle to Be Transported Made by the Customer

If a vehicle other than the one specified at the time of booking is to be transported, a corresponding rebooking is only possible in the following cases:
a) The other vehicle has the same technical dimensions and weight as the vehicle specified at the time of booking.
b) The other vehicle has smaller dimensions or a lower weight,
A prerequisite for such a rebooking is that the written request for rebooking must be received by Train4you no later than 7 days before the actual travel date. A rebooking to a vehicle that does not fall under a) or b) is generally only possible if there is still sufficient space available on the vehicle transport trailer for such a vehicle and if a corresponding written rebooking request has been received by Train4you at least 7 days prior to the actual date of travel. A processing fee of €35 will be charged for rebooking the vehicle.

5.6. Rescheduling by Train4you

Train4you reserves the right to make last-minute schedule changes on board due to operational necessities. Any resulting refunds will be processed afterward through the service center. Cash refunds on board are not permitted.

6. Cancellation by Train4you

6.1 Termination for Good Cause

Train4you may terminate the contract of carriage for good cause before the start of the trip and during the trip. Good cause exists, in particular, if:

• the actual dimensions of the vehicle or other information relevant to transport (e.g., fabric roof, roof-mounted structures, vehicle weight) differ from the information originally provided at the time of booking and noted on the vehicle waybill. In this case, the customer is also not entitled to a refund or compensation for damages.
• the full down payment/balance (Section 5.3.1) or total amount (Section 5.3.2) is not received by Train4you within the deadlines specified therein, and payment is not made even after a request has been issued setting a deadline and threatening cancellation. In this case, Train4you is entitled to terminate the contract without notice and cancel the booking. Train4you may claim the costs to be calculated in accordance with Section 5.3 as compensation for damages, provided that there is not already a valid ground for withdrawal in favor of the customer at that time.

6.2 Termination Due to Force Majeure

If the trip is significantly impeded, endangered, or disrupted due to force majeure that could not have been foreseen at the time the contract was concluded (strikes, natural disasters, route closures, government measures, or similar events), both Train4you and the customer may terminate the contract. Additional costs for return transportation shall be borne equally by both parties. In all other respects, the additional costs shall be borne by the customer.

6.3 Cancellation Due to Failure to Reach a Minimum Number of Participants

6.3.1 General Information

Train4you may cancel a trip if the minimum number of 20 booked vehicles per trip is not reached, in accordance with the following provisions:
a) The minimum number of participants and the latest date by which Train4you may cancel must be specified in the specific trip offer or, in the case of uniform regulations for all trips or certain types of trips, in a general notice (or on the online booking platform) or a general service description.
b) Train4you is obligated to immediately notify the passenger of the cancellation of the trip if it is determined that the trip will not take place due to failure to reach the minimum number of participants.
c) Train4you may not cancel the trip later than 28 days before the start of the trip.

6.3.2 Alternative Offer

In the event of a cancellation, the customer may request to participate in another trip of at least equal value if Train4you is able to offer such a trip from its selection at no additional cost to the customer. The customer must assert this right with Train4you immediately after Train4you notifies the customer of the trip’s cancellation.

6.3.3 Repayment

If the trip is not provided for this reason, the customer will be promptly refunded any payments made toward the fare.

7. Changes to Services and Prices

7.1 Deviations from Specific Services and Obligations

Changes and deviations in individual travel services and obligations from the agreed terms of the contract of carriage that become necessary after the contract is concluded are permitted, provided they are not significant and do not adversely affect the overall nature of the trip. This includes changes to the booking class and schedule changes, e.g., due to construction sites or route closures.

7.2 Increase in Fees

If the charges in effect at the time the contract of carriage is concluded—such as station, track, and terminal fees—are increased for the carrier, the fare may be raised by the corresponding prorated amount. The same applies in the event of an increase in value-added tax. In such cases, the fare shall be increased in accordance with the following calculation:

1. a) In the event of a surcharge related to seat reservations, the carrier may require the customer to pay the amount of the surcharge.
   b) In other cases, the additional transportation costs charged by Train4you per mode of transportation are divided by the number of seats or parking spaces (for cars, motorcycles, etc.) in the agreed-upon mode of transportation. The carrier may charge the customer the resulting additional amount per individual seat or parking space.

An increase in the fare is permitted only if there are more than 4 months between the conclusion of the contract and the agreed date of travel, and if the circumstances leading to the increase had not yet occurred prior to the conclusion of the contract and were not foreseeable by the carrier at the time the contract was concluded. In the event of a subsequent change to the fare, the carrier must inform the customer immediately. Fare increases effective 20 days or less before the departure date are invalid. In the event of price increases exceeding 5%, the customer is entitled to withdraw from the contract without penalty or to request participation in a trip of at least equal value, provided the carrier is able to offer such a trip from its portfolio at no additional cost to the customer. The customer must assert this right against the carrier immediately after receiving notice of the price increase from the carrier.

8. Customer Liability

8.1 Compliance with Obligations

The customer is required to comply with the obligations set forth in these Terms and Conditions of Carriage. This applies in particular to compliance with the prescribed maximum dimensions of the vehicle.

8.2 Grounds for Liability

The customer is liable to Train4you for any damages resulting from the customer’s failure to fulfill these obligations, unless the customer can prove that the damages were caused by circumstances that the customer could not have avoided and whose consequences the customer could not have prevented, even after exercising the care expected of a diligent customer.

8.3 Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations for claims arising from the contract of carriage is governed by the provisions of Article 60 of the CIV, as set forth in Annex I to Regulation (EU) 2021/782 of the European Parliament and of the Council of April 29, 2021, on the rights and obligations of rail passengers.

9. Train4you’s Liability to Customers for Delays, Cancellations, and Missed Connections

9.1 Continued Transportation / Refund of Fare

1.) Customers without a vehicle reservation: If, at the time of departure, it can reasonably be expected that the delay upon arrival at the destination, as specified in the contract of carriage, will be 60 minutes or more, the customer must immediately choose between

• Continuation of the trip or onward travel via an alternate route under comparable conditions of carriage to the final destination at the earliest opportunity;
• Continuation of the trip or onward travel via an alternate route under comparable conditions of service to the final destination at a later time, at the passenger’s discretion.
• Reimbursement of the full fare, under the same conditions under which it was paid, for the portion or portions of the trip that were not completed, and for the portion or portions that have already been completed, if the trip has become pointless according to the passenger’s original travel plans, together with a return trip to the original point of departure at the earliest opportunity, if applicable.

2.) Customers with vehicle reservations: If, prior to the start of loading, it can reasonably be assumed that a car train will arrive at the destination station more than 60 minutes late in accordance with the contract of carriage, the provisions under 1) shall apply.

3.) If, after loading has begun (i.e., once the cars have been loaded onto the car carriers), it can reasonably be expected that a car train will arrive at the destination station more than 60 minutes late in accordance with the contract of carriage, the customer shall immediately have the choice between

• a) continuing the trip or journey via an alternate route to the destination at the earliest opportunity, or
• b) continuing the trip or journey via an alternate route to the final destination at a later time.

9.1.1 Discharge

Since, in the case of 3), it is not possible to unload the motor vehicle immediately for operational reasons—but rather the motor vehicle must always be transported onward to the destination station in accordance with the contract of carriage—the following applies in the event that the customer files a claim under Section 9.1:

1. a) The driver shall hand over the vehicle keys to the train conductor and sign a liability waiver in accordance with the appendix to these Conditions of Carriage. The vehicle will then be unloaded at the booked destination station and, if possible, made available to the passenger at the car-train terminal or in the immediate vicinity. If the passenger can prove that he or she has suffered damages as a result of the delay, he or she is entitled to compensation not exceeding the amount of the fare.

9.1.2 Information About Delays

The customer is not entitled to compensation if he or she was informed of the delay prior to booking. For tickets issued more than one month before departure, the travel times listed on the ticket are tentative and reflect the information available at the time the ticket was issued. Train4you provides information on its website and on the tickets regarding the currently valid arrival and departure times. It is the customer’s responsibility to check for any changes and to verify the final travel times. Passengers will also be individually notified of changes made after the ticket is issued and the reasons for those changes by receiving a newly issued ticket and/or via email. Information regarding delays and connecting options during the train journey is provided by the train crew via the onboard public address system or by speaking to passengers individually during quiet hours (11:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m.). The arrival time is the time of arrival determined by the network operator, not the unloading time. Customers should factor in waiting times accordingly.

9.1.3 Cancellation, Delay, or Missed Connection

Train4you is liable to the customer for damages resulting from the fact that the trip cannot be continued on the same day due to a cancellation, delay, or missed connection, or that, under the given circumstances, continuing the trip on the same day is not reasonable. Compensation shall cover the reasonable costs incurred by the customer in connection with overnight accommodations and notifying the persons expecting him or her; however, it shall not exceed the amount of the fare. Any fare refunds shall be calculated based on the ticket value of the passengers being transported.

Train4you is exempt from this liability if the cancellation, delay, or missed connection is due to one of the following causes:

• circumstances beyond the control of Train4you that it was unable to avoid or whose consequences it was unable to prevent despite exercising the due care required under the circumstances (e.g., cable theft, people on the tracks, official measures, delays caused by extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather conditions or major natural disasters that jeopardized the safe operation of the transportation service) or
• if the delay was caused by a serious public health crisis, such as a pandemic, or
• Fault of one or more passengers, or
• Conduct by a third party that Train4you was unable to prevent, despite exercising the due care required under the circumstances, and whose consequences it was unable to avert. Rights of recourse remain unaffected.

9.1.4 Compensation for Delays

Without losing the right to transportation, a customer is entitled to compensation for delays if he or she experiences a delay between the departure and destination locations specified on the ticket for which no fare refund has been granted under Section 9.1.3. Compensation for delays is as follows:

1. a) 25% of the one-way fare for passenger transportation in the event of a delay of 60 to 119 minutes
2. b) 50 percent of the fare for passenger transportation per leg of the trip for delays of 120 minutes or more

Train4you is exempt from this liability if the cancellation, delay, or missed connection is due to one of the following causes:

• circumstances beyond the control of Train4you that it was unable to avoid or prevent, despite exercising the due care required under the circumstances (e.g., cable theft, people on the tracks, official measures, delays caused by extraordinary circumstances such as extreme weather conditions or major natural disasters that jeopardized the safe operation of the transportation service) or
• if the delay was caused by a serious public health crisis, such as a pandemic, or
• Fault of one or more passengers, or
• Conduct by a third party that Train4you was unable to prevent despite exercising the due care required under the circumstances, and whose consequences it was unable to avert. Rights of recourse remain unaffected.

9.2 Entitlement to a Fare Refund

The customer enters into a contract of carriage with Train4you for each leg of the journey, which may include additional transportation services (freight). In this respect, the contract does not encompass a comprehensive set of travel services. Train4you is not obligated to ensure any overall success beyond the transportation service itself. A delay does not automatically and without further ado impair the quality of the transportation service and therefore does not give rise to a claim for compensation for non-pecuniary damages.

9.3 Assertion of Claims

Claims must be submitted exclusively in writing using the forms provided by Train4you. These are: a) Passenger Rights Form (available for download on the Urlaubs-Express website), and b) Vehicle Damage Report (issued at the vehicle terminal by the loading crew or train conductor). All claims must be submitted by email to info@train4you.de or by mail to:

Train4you Vertriebs GmbH
– Customer Management –
Kolumbastraße 5
50667 Cologne

9.4 Statute of Limitations

Claims under sections 9.1–9.3 above are subject to a statute of limitations of three months following the expiration of the ticket’s validity period.

9.5 Grounds for Exclusion of Liability

Train4you is liable to the passenger (except for claims arising from Regulation (EU) 2021/782 of the European Parliament and of the Council of April 29, 2021, on the rights and obligations of rail passengers, and under the CIV) generally only in cases of willful misconduct or gross negligence; in the event of a breach of material contractual obligations (cardinal obligations, such as the obligation to use only safe rail vehicles for the transport of passengers and motor vehicles) and in the event of injury to life, limb, or health, even in cases of slight negligence. In the event of a breach of essential contractual obligations, however, liability for damages is limited to typical, foreseeable damages. Except in cases of willful misconduct, gross negligence, or a breach of material contractual obligations, liability for property damage to any passenger is limited to a maximum amount of €1,000. The provisions of the Liability Act (HPflG) remain unaffected in all other respects.

10. Online Dispute Resolution Platform

Under current law, Train4you is required to inform consumers of the existence of the European Online Dispute Resolution Platform, which can be used to resolve disputes without having to go to court. The European Commission is responsible for operating the platform. To access the European Online Dispute Resolution platform, please click here.

Train4you Vertriebs GmbH does not participate in dispute resolution proceedings before the Federal Arbitration Board or other arbitration bodies (Section 36 of the VSBG).

11. Electronic Data Processing

Train4you stores and processes personal data for the purposes of contract fulfillment and customer service in compliance with the data protection provisions of the General Data Protection Regulation, which took effect on May 25, 2018. You can find Train4you’s privacy policy here.

12. Insurance, Safety Notice

Train4you recommends purchasing insurance (travel cancellation, damage to vehicles during loading, transport, and unloading, and theft by breaking and entering) to mitigate the risks and costs generally associated with cancellation or transportation.

13. Governing Law; Jurisdiction

The provisions of German law apply to the transportation. Train4you provides all services exclusively under the terms and conditions stated herein. If the contract of carriage is concluded by a merchant in the course of his business, the exclusive venue for legal proceedings is Cologne.

14. Inquiry; Contact

Booking Information:
Train4you Vertriebs GmbH
Kolumbastraße 5
50667 Cologne
Email: info@train4you.de
Phone: 0221 800 20 820