A sea-rail intermodal train carrying 26 vehicles has departed from the Jinan Inland Port of Shandong Ports Group, heading directly to Qingdao Port. This marks the successful inaugural run of the "Jinan-Qingdao Port" PIL sea-rail intermodal service, jointly established by Shandong Port Logistics Group, Qingdao Port, and Pacific International Lines (PIL). The service further strengthens the integrated network connecting inland ports, hub ports, and international shipping routes, helping Shandong's foreign trade enterprises accelerate their export processes.
The successful launch of the dedicated train highlights the growing hub functionality of the Jinan Inland Port. Since its official opening on May 25, 2024, the Jinan Inland Port has focused on supporting Jinan's manufacturing industry by precisely meeting the export needs of key enterprises. Leveraging an efficient 30-kilometer transport radius, the inland port has provided stable international logistics channels for leading companies such as BYD, Sinotruk, and Bodor Laser. Shipments have included laser equipment, auto parts, steel balls, and food products. By optimizing train scheduling and the collection and distribution system, the inland port has effectively reduced logistics costs for manufacturers, establishing itself as a crucial platform integrating advanced manufacturing with international logistics.
The launch of this sea-rail intermodal service represents a further extension and upgrade of the inland port's capabilities. The collaboration between Shandong Ports and PIL enables precise coordination of shipping resources, port hubs, and inland logistics channels. During the operation phase, the Jinan branch of the Logistics Group utilized its strengths in multimodal transport coordination and the inland port's hub function. By optimizing the transport organization model, they reduced comprehensive logistics costs by 15% and cut transit time to 4.5 hours, thereby enhancing supply chain stability.
The successful inaugural run creates a win-win situation for cargo owners, the port, and the shipping company. As the train service moves toward regular operation, it is expected to further help foreign trade enterprises lower logistics costs and promote high-quality development of the regional export-oriented economy.
Moving forward, Shandong Port Logistics Group will continue to leverage the advantages of its port hubs, deepen multi-party collaboration, innovate multimodal transport models, and build an efficient and convenient modern logistics system, contributing to the formation of a new development paradigm.