In China, cargo transportation using 50-foot containers for domestic routes has been initiated, as reported by the railway portal Railway Supply.

Rail Freight in Containers

On September 20, 2023, trains loaded with these containers were simultaneously dispatched from terminals in Guangzhou (Guangdong Province), Shanghai, Changsha (Hunan Province), and Kunming (Yunnan Province).

Chinese Metro Expanding with Autonomous Trains

The transportation in 50-foot containers is organized between specialized terminals, utilizing trains capable of speeds up to 120 km/h.

It is projected that the transit time between Guangzhou and Changsha will be 10 hours, between Shanghai and terminals in Guangdong Province – 27 hours, and between Kunming and these terminals – 40 hours.

The 50-foot containers were developed by China’s railways (CR) and represent the largest containers in the country.

With a volume of 114.4 m³, which is 50% larger than standard 40-foot containers, and a gross weight of 36 tons, these containers have a payload capacity of 30.85 tons.

According to CR estimates, cargo transportation in 50-foot containers for domestic routes will significantly reduce transportation costs by reducing delivery times and fuel expenses.

The routes are laid along electrified railways, and a portion of the cargo will be shifted from highways.

It is planned that the geography of cargo transportation in 50-foot containers will expand to encompass all major economic zones in China.

Photo: Xinhua

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