Scalable Cost Analysis of Foldable Containers

Are foldable containers economically feasible?

Heuristic algorithms are proposed to solve the mathematical models. Numerical experiments are carried out in several scenarios to demonstrate the economic feasibility of foldable containers. The sensitivity analysis shows that the purchasing cost and the transportation cost affect the use of foldable containers.

Do foldable containers generate revenue?

However, this does not generate revenue and incurs container management costs (CMCs). Some container carriers may use foldable containers (FLDs), such as four-in-one designs, instead of standard containers (STDs), in order to minimize the costs associated with relocating empty containers.

Will foldable containers be less expensive in the future?

Currently, foldable containers with lower production costs have been designed in several studies. Moreover, when foldable containers can be produced on a large scale, their purchasing cost can fall. It is expected that foldable containers will be less expensive in the future. Third, an experiment has been conducted on the transportation cost.

How much does a foldable container cost?

For the sensitivity analysis, the purchasing price of a foldable container is assumed to be twice as much as that of a standard container. Four foldable containers take up as much space as a standard container when folded and packed together. The folding and unfolding costs are the same; they are assumed to be approximately 50USD per handling.