DHL Launches Multimodal Service for Chinajapan Trade

DHL Global Forwarding launched a multimodal transport service between China and Japan, integrating waterway, railway, and road transportation for a more economical, efficient, and environmentally friendly logistics solution. The service utilizes 12-foot containers, covering major Chinese cities to various locations in Japan. It offers reduced transit times and lower carbon emissions, making it suitable for industries such as electronics, apparel, and automotive. Future plans include expanding the service to offer less-than-container load (LCL) options.
DHL Launches Multimodal Service for Chinajapan Trade

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.