
Imagine goods no longer constrained by the limitations of single-mode transportation, but instead moving like experienced travelers, skillfully navigating between land, sea, and rail to reach their destination in a more economical, efficient, and environmentally friendly manner. DHL Global Forwarding has officially introduced a China-Japan multimodal transport service, injecting new vitality into trade between the two nations.
Service Overview: Seamless Multimodal Connectivity
DHL Global Forwarding has innovatively integrated waterway, railway, and road transport resources to launch a new multimodal service between China and Japan. The service utilizes 12-foot containers as carriers, seamlessly connecting truck, ferry, and rail transport to move goods from multiple major Chinese cities to various locations in Japan, and vice versa.
Transport Routes: Flexible and Comprehensive Coverage
- Chinese Origins: The service covers economically developed regions including Shanghai, Ningbo, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Nantong, Wuxi, Nanjing, Hefei, and Wuhan, with goods transported by truck to Shanghai for consolidation.
- Shipping Route: From Shanghai, goods are transported by ferry to Hakata Port in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
- Japanese Rail Transport: After unloading at Hakata Port, goods are transported throughout Japan via the Japan Rail network.
- Domestic Distribution: Leveraging Japan Rail's extensive network, the service enables pickup and delivery services throughout Japan.
- Return Route: Goods are transported by Japan Rail to Hakata Port, then by ferry to Shanghai, and finally distributed by truck to various locations in China.
Transport Mode: 12-Foot Containers for Flexibility
The service utilizes 12-foot containers owned by JR Freight, originally introduced for domestic Japanese use in 1971 and particularly suitable for small-volume, fast-turnaround goods.
- Standardized Design: The containers are specifically designed for rail transport, with dimensions and weight meeting railway standards to ensure safe and stable transportation.
- Flexible Loading: The mid-sized containers can accommodate various cargo types to meet diverse customer needs.
- Easy Handling: The containers facilitate efficient loading and unloading, reducing transit times.
Core Advantages: Cost Reduction, Speed Improvement, and Environmental Benefits
DHL's multimodal service aims to provide customers with more competitive transportation solutions, offering significant advantages in cost, speed, and environmental impact.
Cost Efficiency: Significant Transportation Savings
The service can reduce transportation costs by up to 60% compared to air freight, presenting an attractive option for cost-conscious customers.
- Economies of Scale: Multimodal transport leverages the advantages of various transportation methods to achieve scale effects and reduce unit costs.
- Resource Optimization: Rational allocation of transport resources minimizes unnecessary steps and expenses.
- Strategic Partnerships: Long-term cooperation with shipping and rail companies enables competitive pricing.
Speed Advantage: Reduced Transit Times
Compared to traditional ocean shipping, the service can reduce transit times by up to three days, offering a significant advantage for time-sensitive shipments.
- Seamless Transitions: Minimizes waiting time between different transport modes.
- Rapid Transfer: Ferry and rail transport provide relatively faster movement.
- Process Optimization: Streamlined procedures enhance overall efficiency.
Environmental Benefits: Substantial Carbon Reduction
The service can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 92% compared to air transport, an important consideration for environmentally conscious businesses.
- Low-Carbon Options: Ferry and rail transport generate significantly lower emissions than air freight.
- Route Optimization: Strategic planning reduces transport mileage and associated emissions.
- Sustainability Commitment: Part of DHL's broader initiative to provide eco-friendly transport solutions.
Service Highlights: Professionalism, Reliability, and Flexibility
DHL Global Forwarding delivers an exceptional multimodal experience through professional teams, reliable networks, and flexible service options.
Expert Team: Experienced and Customer-Focused
A dedicated team provides comprehensive services including route planning, customs clearance, and cargo tracking.
Reliable Network: Extensive and Secure
DHL's global infrastructure ensures safe and timely delivery through strategic partnerships with carriers worldwide.
Customized Solutions: Tailored to Customer Needs
The service offers flexible route, mode, and schedule options, plus value-added services like warehousing and insurance.
Industry Applications: Broad Potential Across Sectors
The multimodal service serves various industries, with particular potential in electronics, apparel, and automotive sectors.
Electronics: Rapid Market Response
Ideal for fast-moving electronics components and finished products, helping reduce inventory pressures.
Apparel: Keeping Pace with Fashion Trends
Enables quick delivery of new collections while lowering transportation costs for garment manufacturers.
Automotive: Supporting Global Supply Chains
Facilitates efficient movement of parts and vehicles across production and sales networks.
Future Development: Service Expansion and Innovation
DHL plans to introduce LCL (Less than Container Load) services for SMEs and explore emerging technologies like drone and electric truck transport.
LCL Services: Supporting Small Businesses
The planned consolidation service will help smaller shippers reduce costs and access international markets.
Continuous Innovation: Exploring New Technologies
DHL remains committed to adopting IoT, AI, and other technologies to enhance efficiency while pursuing sustainable solutions.