Shanxi has inaugurated a new rail-sea intermodal transport route for 35-metric ton wide-body containers. The J80112 train, which departed from Datong Railway Logistics Center's Antang Coal Distribution Station, recently became the first train to run along the route, arriving at the Qinzhou Port in Guangxi province.

Containers full of coal are loaded onto the train. [Photo/Shanxi Economic News]

The new intermodal corridor connects Shanxi via the Bohai and Beibu gulfs to the southwestern inland regions. The 35-ton wide-body containers are known for their strong loading capacity, cost-effective logistics, and versatile cargo adaptability. Particularly, the open-top design facilitates easy loading and unloading, making them ideal for bulk commodities such as coal, ore, and coke.

According to Zhao Yunyun from Xinzhou Haofeng Coal Logistics Co, the upgraded transport model reduces logistics costs by 13 percent by eliminating yard storage and secondary transfers, while cargo damage rates have dropped to nearly zero.

Jin Rui, the marketing director at Datong Railway Logistics Center, highlighted the seamless integration of data and standards among rail, port, and shipping companies, allowing shippers to coordinate directly with the railway for a streamlined shipping process.

The China Railway Taiyuan Group plans to run three 35-ton wide-body container intermodal trains monthly, with a goal of shipping nearly 1,000 containers by year-end. The aim is to enhance the modern railway logistics system, further supporting economic and social development.