Establishing a New Logistics Network to Tackle the 2030 Challenge

A New Era for Logistics in Kagoshima

Kagoshima Prefecture, in collaboration with ANA Cargo, AnyCarry, and Asahi Shimbun, has taken a significant step towards addressing the pressing logistics challenges anticipated by 2030. This partnership, formally recognized by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, aims to address the impending '2030 logistics problem' through the establishment of the 'Air Cargo Main Line and Regional Delivery Network Promotion Council.' This cooperative initiative is set to revolutionize logistics operations by integrating air and ground transportation effectively.

Background of the Initiative

The logistics sector in Japan faces several daunting challenges, notably the aging workforce and a shortage of truck drivers. Projections suggest that by 2030, the transportation capacity within the nation could decrease dramatically, leading to an inability to transport approximately 34% of logistics demands—an issue branded as the '2030 logistics problem.' This crisis particularly affects long-distance transport, raising concerns over extended delivery times and reduced transportation capabilities.

To counter these issues, early implementation of alternative transportation options, particularly those that complement road transport, is critical. Moreover, creating a well-structured last-mile delivery network utilizing regional resources is an urgent necessity to ensure that demand can be met efficiently.

Overview of the Council's Activities

The newly formed council will concentrate on maximizing the potential of unused capacity on air freight services while leveraging local delivery resources, such as the newspaper distribution networks. The project will facilitate the connection of Kagoshima with metropolitan areas through an air cargo main line, which pairs well with last-mile delivery channels made robust by partnerships with regional media outlets and AnyCarry’s delivery management systems.

Highlights of the Initiative

1. Hybrid Transport Solutions: The council aims to integrate ANA Cargo's air transport network with localized delivery channels provided by AnyCarry and Asahi Shimbun, ensuring a complementary solution to traditional truck-based mainline transport.

2. Visualization and Sharing of Space: The use of AnyCarry’s management system will enable the identification of available space in aircraft and trucks, optimizing utilization and maximizing loading efficiency.

3. Same-Day Delivery Capabilities: By transitioning from traditional trucking to air freight, the initiative promises efficient same-day delivery options for Kagoshima-produced agricultural and seafood products— opening new market avenues in metropolitan areas without compromising on freshness.

Expected Outcomes

This collaborative effort is set to reduce delivery costs by more than 10% through the effective utilization of existing logistics resources, especially unused space. Furthermore, by streamlining the supply chain, the initiative will not only alleviate logistics shortages but will also introduce a new flow of goods that maintains the quality and freshness of local products reaching significant consumption areas.

Roles of Each Member

- Kagoshima Prefecture: Assess the needs of local producers and businesses.
- ANA Cargo: Provide air freight services and assess the potential of utilizing available capacity.
- AnyCarry: Offer delivery management systems, oversee vehicle data, and handle last-mile delivery networks in Kagoshima, along with designing matching systems tailored for modal shifts.
- Asahi Shimbun: Contribute with their strong last-mile delivery network in metropolitan areas, capitalizing on their existing newspaper distribution capabilities.

Future Directions

The four organizations participating in this council are committed to testing specific services, uncovering the needs of producers, and crafting effective operational strategies. By fostering synergies that transcend industry boundaries, they aim to construct a sustainable logistics framework addressing the challenges posed by the 2030 logistics crisis while invigorating local economies.