End-to-end logistics company DP World has created a new way to transport finished vehicles from Mexico to the United States and Canada. From June 1, the business will use 53-foot intermodal containers with special racks to carry the cars by rail.
The service involves loading finished vehicles into containers at factories in Mexico or nearby stuffing yards. The containers are then trucked to rail ramps and transported by rail to cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, Detroit, and Toronto.
Why does this matter? Traditional 40-foot containers can hold up to four cars, but the 53-foot containers can fit up to six cars, making them more efficient and cost-effective for manufacturers. DP World is the only logistics company offering this 53-foot container solution for transporting finished vehicles.
DP World has a unique solution
At the destination, containers are trucked from the rail ramp to yards where the cars are unloaded and then delivered to dealerships. The entire trip takes between eight to 14 days, depending on the route.
Christoph Seitz, global vice president for finished vehicles at DP World says: “Our extensive experience shipping cars in containers worldwide, the large racking fleet we can deploy globally within weeks, and our expert teams and hyper focus on quality and service have enabled DP World to provide this unique solution in a challenging environment,” says Seitz.
Seitz adds that the company’s initial volume shipments this year have proven the concept that the 53-foot intermodal solution is a viable alternative during times when traditional capacity is tight.
Global shipping container market
Straits Research reports the demand for cargo transportation via ships is expected to increase due to recent advancements in commercial vessels and significant players’ innovation of better and more efficient cargo ships.
“These ships will be fitted with the newest technology, including advanced sensors and navigation systems. This eventually led to the global shipping container market growth,” reads the report.
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About the author
Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.
