Initial Situation
On behalf of a customer, 1,000 tons of cardboard boxes were to be shipped from Nanchang, China to Semarang, Indonesia in two loads. The focus of the request was on on-time delivery and the most economical logistics solution.
Nanchang is one of the most important inland river ports and is also known for being a major railroad hub in South East Asia. Due to the location the barge model is the most traditional and common solution.
Solution
Three different routes were compared. The first option was the barge model from Nanchang to Shanghai, the second one the railway model from Nanchang to Ningbo and the third one the railway model from Nanchang to Xiamen. The third option was proven to be the most economical and efficient way in terms of transit time and savings. A challenge occurred when not enough empty containers were available in Nanchang. With the help of the FMS network and an important strategic partner a solution was easily found and a 21 days free time was agreed.
