#Japan #Tokyo #T2 #Autonomous Trucks #Mitsui-Soko

Introduction

Mitsui-Soko Logistics Co., Ltd. and T2 Inc. have taken a significant step towards transforming the logistics landscape in Japan by initiating the country's first mixed transport demonstration project. This innovative project combines the cross-docking method with autonomous trucks, aiming to enhance efficiency in logistics amidst ongoing challenges such as the driver shortage crisis exacerbated by the 2024 logistics issue.

Project Overview

The demonstration is set to commence on September 29, 2025, connecting Mitsui-Soko's Zama Logistics Center in Kanagawa and Sayato Akane Logistics Center in Osaka. Both facilities will handle cargo from five different shippers, without needing to store the goods as inventory. Instead, the cross-docking method allows for sorting and shipping directly at the logistics centers.

By utilizing T2's Level 2 autonomous trucks, the project aims to facilitate efficient multi-shipper transport between the two logistics hubs. Following their arrival in Osaka, the autonomous trucks will quickly load the next shipment to enhance operational uptime and maximize load capacity.

Addressing Logistics Challenges

As Japan grapples with a shortage of truck drivers, Mitsui-Soko Logistics has deepened its partnership with T2 since investing in the company in 2023. They have participated in several joint experiments to pave the way for a sustainable logistics operation. Furthermore, they are eager to be among the first users in T2's Level 2 autonomous truck commercial operations, which began in July 2025, while aiming for T2’s goal of Level 4 autonomous trucking by 2027.

The collaboration aims to create an operational scheme that optimizes both the utilization rate of autonomous trucks and the load factor through the combination of their respective capabilities. By implementing cross-docking and autonomous transport, they aspire to streamline their supply chain processes and provide efficient logistics solutions.

Actual Implementation

The demo will take place over three days, from September 29 to October 1, 2025. Here's a glimpse into the operation:
1. Outbound Route: From Zama Logistics Center to Sayato Akane Logistics Center.
2. Return Route: From Sayato Akane back to Zama Logistics Center.
This route will stretch across part of the highway and connections to the warehouses of collaborating shippers.

Mitsui-Soko's role will involve establishing and managing the cross-dock operations and orchestrating the collection and delivery of goods. In parallel, T2 will be providing the demonstration vehicles and overseeing transportation along the designated route.

Collaborating Shippers

Five shippers will participate, each providing a variety of goods, including:

• - Panasonic: Commercial refrigerators and freezers.
• - Nature Lab: Haircare and body care products.
• - Daikin: Household air conditioning units.
• - Doutor Coffee: Coffee beans and store consumables.
• - Elecom: IT-related products.

Focus and Evaluation

The demonstration will assess various factors:

• - Validate the operational flow and efficiency of cross-docking coupled with autonomous transportation.
• - Evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of this mixed transport method, particularly its potential for enhancing logistics efficiency.

Furthermore, as Sayato Akane is equipped with distribution center capabilities, it will also examine how inventory can be incorporated into the mixed shipment, facilitating improved mixture of products and coordination with the transport schedules of autonomous trucks.

The project might also explore the use of swap bodies, allowing a single vehicle to make multiple deliveries in a milk-run style, ensuring consistent transport between the autonomous sections and shippers' starting points.

Through these efforts, Mitsui-Soko and T2 plan to refine the operations of their autonomous transport, addressing any identified improvement opportunities to potentially integrate this transport method into T2’s future Level 4 autonomous trucking operations.

Conclusion

This collaborative venture signifies a groundbreaking approach in the Japanese logistics sector, as Mitsui-Soko and T2 work together towards creating a next-generation, sustainable transport solution. By harnessing the synergies of cross-docking and autonomous trucking, they are poised to address existing logistical challenges while paving the way for a more efficient future in the industry.