Shanghai, [Date] – DHL Global Forwarding, a leading global freight forwarding service provider, has unveiled a groundbreaking multimodal transport service connecting China and Japan. This innovative solution aims to revitalize trade between the two nations while redefining logistics efficiency and sustainability across Asia.
Seamless Connectivity Redefining Logistics
The newly launched service is not merely a combination of transport modes but a meticulously designed logistics solution. Utilizing standardized 12-foot containers, it ensures rapid, secure, and efficient cargo movement from inland China to destinations across Japan.
Traditionally, China-Japan trade relied heavily on sea and air freight. While sea freight offers cost efficiency, its slower transit times often fall short for time-sensitive shipments. Air freight, though faster, comes with prohibitive costs for many businesses. DHL’s multimodal service bridges this gap, offering a balanced alternative with competitive pricing and improved transit times.
The service’s flexibility allows clients to customize routes and transport combinations—opting for rail to expedite deliveries or prioritizing cost-effective sea routes. Integrated services like cargo tracking, customs clearance, and warehousing further enhance the end-to-end experience.
Extensive Coverage and Strategic Routes
The service connects key Chinese economic hubs—including Shanghai, Ningbo, Wuhan, and Nanjing—to Japan’s Hakata Port via truck and ferry. From Hakata, cargo leverages Japan’s robust rail network (Japan Rail) for domestic distribution, with trucks handling last-mile delivery. Return routes mirror this multimodal approach, facilitating balanced trade flows.
DHL emphasizes adaptability, offering tailored routes for specific client needs, such as alternate Japanese ports. This flexibility underscores the service’s client-centric design.
Triple Advantage: Cost, Speed, and Sustainability
The service delivers three core benefits:
- Cost Efficiency: Up to 60% savings compared to air freight.
- Faster Transit: Reduces sea freight timelines by up to three days.
- Eco-Friendly: Cuts CO2 emissions by 92% versus air transport.
Technological and Regulatory Backbone
DHL’s success hinges on securing a rail freight license from Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism. This authorization enables direct access to Japan’s high-efficiency rail network, ensuring reliability and operational excellence.
Market Potential and Future Expansion
Daigo Seki, DHL Japan’s Ocean Freight Head, noted the service addresses demand for “a cost-competitive, swift, and green alternative to air and sea freight.” Kelvin Leung, CEO of DHL Asia Pacific, highlighted untapped potential in fashion and automotive sectors—key trade segments between the two nations.
Future plans include introducing Less-than-Container Load (LCL) options, democratizing access for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Conclusion
DHL’s multimodal service marks a strategic leap in logistics innovation, poised to bolster China-Japan trade—a cornerstone of Asia’s economic growth. By harmonizing efficiency, affordability, and sustainability, the service sets a new benchmark for regional supply chains.