JR Central Expands Tokaido Mahha Delivery Services
JR Central has announced an enhancement to its Tokaido Mahha Delivery service, designed specifically for corporate clients who require same-day freight transport. By leveraging the operational areas of the Nozomi and Hikari shinkansen services, the company aims to significantly improve the speed and efficiency of freight delivery across the Tokaido shinkansen line.
Starting July 1st, 2023, the Tokaido Mahha Delivery service, which was previously limited to the Kodama trains, will welcome Nozomi and Hikari trains for transporting goods. This strategic expansion will allow faster deliveries between key stations, improving overall service reliability and response time for business logistics.
Service Expansion Details
With the introduction of new train options, the service's reach is set to increase significantly. Additionally, Kyoto Station has been added to the list of service locations, expanding coverage to include Tokyo, Shizuoka, Mikawa Anjo, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Shin-Osaka stations. This brings the total to six major stations along the Tokaido shinkansen route.
The use of Nozomi and Hikari trains enhances delivery times. The average travel times for freight transportation between different sections of the line have been evaluated based on schedule adjustments slated for the spring of 2025. The service plans to cut down on delivery times by streamlining operations and utilizing the trains' speed, punctuality, reduced vibrations, and overall lower environmental impact.
Freight Capacity and Station Availability
The capacity for freight transport is based on cargo dimensions. For boxes with a combined dimension of up to 120 cm, JR Central has set guidelines for what can be accommodated. It is important to note that actual freight acceptance can vary depending on packing styles and stop durations.
- - Future updates include the commencement of service for Hikari trains at Shizuoka and Nagoya stations, expected to begin after August, while service at Kyoto Station is anticipated to start on July 17th.
Customer Guidance and Contracting
To utilize the Tokaido Mahha Delivery service, clients must contract with JR Central’s logistics partner, JR Central Logistics Corporation. Businesses are encouraged to finalize their shipping details, such as train selections and cargo specifications, at least one week prior to their intended shipping date.
Visualizing the Tokaido Mahha Delivery Experience
Accompanying this new service are illustrative materials that depict the seamless freight network enabled by the Tokaido Mahha service, which is part of a broader logistics enhancement movement across Japan’s shinkansen rail network.
Future Prospects
JR Central remains committed to future collaborations with various logistic companies along the shinkansen lines to explore emerging market demands. The company's focus is on maintaining the high-speed, accurate, and eco-friendly characteristics of the shinkansen while delivering innovative solutions to meet the growing needs of corporate clients.
The Tokaido Mahha Delivery service not only showcases how rail transport can evolve but also presents businesses with a reliable option for urgent delivery needs, satisfying a critical demand in the logistics sector. Customers interested in utilizing the service can reach out to JR Central for more information and contractual inquiries at s-transport@jrtl.co.jp.
For more details about the Tokaido Mahha Delivery service, please visit the official JR Central website.