Page 4 - Al-Rashed Newsletter July 2022

Another manufacturer came up with a somewhat
different design. Their plans are currently only for 20-
ft. containers, which is where they believe the most
potential is – especially for developing economies
where trade is particularly lopsided. And instead of
folding flat, their containers instead collapse from left
to right, making room for two to five containers where
one empty one would normally stand.

Another manufacturer came up with a somewhat different design. Their plans are currently only for 20-
ft. containers, which is where they believe the most potential is – especially for developing economies
where trade is particularly lopsided. And instead of folding flat, their containers instead collapse from
left to right, making room for two to five containers where one empty one would normally stand.

The obvious (and not so obvious) benefits of foldable containers
There seem to be two immediate benefits – freeing up yard space at the terminal and creating more
space on container ships (which are often on the smaller end) for laden cargo. But there are certain
less obvious advantages too. For example, because multiple folded “empties” can be lifted at once, they
may reduce the total number of lifts needed to load or unload a ship, thus speeding up the process at
both ends of the supply chain. Of course, on the downside, these containers cost more than traditional,
non-trick-performing versions. One estimate from says that these innovative containers will initially cost
about 30% more than traditional containers, but the price could fall significantly in the coming years.
Either way, all signs point to a good investment, as the cost can be earned back in at least the same
time as it takes for other containers, and potentially in as little as 18 months.
Although none of these containers are in widespread use yet, and it might take a while before they are
approved for common use, these companies have clearly identified a need in the industry and are
looking to fill that need.

Please click on the below link for a video representation.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7-uLfWUz_A

Mr. Spartan George
Manager - NVOCC & FEEDER