Application model of Small Containerized Cargo Units in integrated transportation: A case study

Concerning the current increasing demand for cargo shipment in small-batches with high-security and fast-delivery service performance that railway transportation enterprises faced with, this paper analyzes the rail express logistical processes from a systematic perspective in order to improve its service quality and efficiency. Based on supply chain integration, standardization and containerization theory, this paper designs a new application model utilizing Small Containerized Cargo Units (SCCU) placed on pallets for fast and easy handling, and puts forward a proposal for the unitization of such SCCU in order to achieve seamless transport operations from shippers to logistics services providers and then to the final cargo destination. Design principles of SCCU are specified as well. We also provide a case study of our model with the pilot project of China Railway Express, the biggest domestic railway express company. This best practice testifies the effect and feasibility of the SCCU model.