Sea and air intermodal freight transport from East Asia to North America: From the viewpoint of cost efficiency

The implementation of international sea and air intermodal transport (Sea & Air) will enhance global transport competitiveness by addressing advanced logistics needs, such as reducing time and costs in the transportation process and selecting appropriate global transport modes. This study utilized a generalized cost model to analyze the feasibility of Sea & Air transport through Japan for containerized cargo from East Asia to North America. The findings indicate that (1) the Kaohsiung to New York (NY) route holds the most tremendous potential for Sea & Air transport via Japan, (2) the types of cargo that are most suited for Sea & Air transport, and (3) the policies necessary to facilitate Sea & Air transport at the Port of Kobe. Additionally, Sea & Air transport offers intermodal solutions that reduce environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency by reducing the reliance on air transport. • We examine the feasibility of international and intermodal sea and air cargo transportation services (Sea & Air) via Japan. • We found the Kaohsiung to New York route holds the greatest potential for Sea & Air via Japan. • We found the key is reducing cargo handling time and cost at transit points to enhance Sea & Air. • The level of a carbon tax is discussed to prevent increasing carbon dioxide emissions.