Research Of LPG Containerization Logistics Mode And Tank Container Movements Scheduling

The flow of LPG is mainly from north to south in China, because the supply-demand is not blance in different regions. The logistics mode of LPG in long distances now is by LPG carrier and it has disadvantages such as lack of flexibility, masses of operation procedure, high capital occupation and unsafety. It can not follow the progress of high level demand in LPG logistics.In these years containerization of bulk cargo becomes the trend of logistics.In the context of such situation, this paper researches on LPG containerization logistics mode.It compares the new mode with the traditional mode on procedure and economics. In the same time, how to schedule the movements of tank containers to make low logistics cost and to satisfy the logistics demand is also the important point of this paper.This paper combines qualitative analysis and quantitative calculation. Firstly it analyses the supply-demand situation of LPG market in China to illustrate the prospect of LPG logistics.Then comparing the facilities and cost between two modes to reveal the advantages of LPG containerization logistics mode.Finally the paper proposes the event-based concept and models LP model to schedule the tank container movements.LPG containerization logistics mode has its theoretic and technological feasibility, but it also has restriction of policies and market acceptability. On the other hand, new mode has referential function in the logistics of relevant goods.