Racks can be configured to fit up to six cars in one intermodal container compared to conventional fixed-rack container equipment, which accommodates two medium sized cars. The system offers door-to-door delivery, minimising handling throughout the supply chain.
In addition, AutoDirect racks fit easily into standard containers from any carrier, allowing customers to deliver small batches more frequently to many destinations that traditional ro-ro transportation does not reach. This allows customers to reduce inventory while at the same time improving service, a company statement said.
"AutoDirect is an innovative transport solution that can increase cost competitiveness compared to conventional containerised delivery," said APL Logistics auto business development chief Rinaldy Sudyatmiko. "This is targeted to small to medium shipments by original equipment manufacturers, importers or distributors."
One shipment from China to Thailand came as seven 40-foot high cube containers and one FEU carrying 28 cars.
The eight containers made their way from Yantai, China via Dalian and transshipment port Kaohsiung, Taiwan before arriving at Laem Chabang. The vehicles were moved to their final destination in Laos.