Part 2 of the blog series: When a factory goes on a trip

With the dismantling of the first plant components, the operational phase of the project begins: the organization of container logistics. Many components of the system cannot be transported as traditional heavy loads, but are loaded into containers for international shipping. Around 40 containers were planned for the first project phase — they form the basis for the entire transport chain between plant and port.

SOC containers as a strategic decision

These are mostly so-called SOC containers (Shipper Owned Containers). These containers are not provided by shipping companies, but are procured specifically for the project. FR8 Logistik GmbH organizes these containers independently to ensure maximum flexibility in terms of availability, runtimes and cost structure. Especially for projects of this type, the container strategy determines how efficiently the processes can be implemented.

Standard containers — around 40 feet high cube — cover a large part of the requirements. At the same time, however, special solutions must also be considered. For oversized or particularly heavy components, options include open-top containers for loading from above or flat racks for oversized or oversized goods (out of gauge, OOG).

Even though standard containers are mainly used in this project phase, the integration of special equipment is already part of the planning.

Technical requirements: When a container is “seaworthy”

A central aspect is the technical usability of the containers. Before they can be used in international shipping, they must meet certain safety requirements.

The basis is the so-called CSC sticker (Container Safety Convention). Among other things, it confirms structural stability, maximum load-bearing capacity and compliance with international standards. Only with this certification are containers considered “seaworthy” and approved for use at sea.

Logistics in sync

The containers are initially delivered empty to the factory. The dismantled machine components are loaded there. They are then transported back to port, where they are prepared for shipment.

In order to make this process efficient, logistics is organized in a so-called intermittent mode. Containers are delivered, loaded in parallel and then removed again, while new units arrive at the same time. This creates a continuous flow of materials between plant and port without individual process steps stalling.

Planning beyond the container

This synchronization is crucial for project success. Disassembly, packaging and transport are interlinked and must be precisely coordinated. Even minor delays can have an impact on the entire process.

At the same time, overarching questions must also be considered: Is the plant shipped as a partial shipment or as a closed project (one lot)? What documents are required, such as proofs of origin such as EUR.1? And which payment terms — for example via a letter of credit — influence the structure of the supply chain?

These factors decisively determine how transport, time planning and documentation are organized.

From planning to movement

With container logistics, planning becomes a continuous flow of materials. The plant leaves its original location step by step — structured, timed and prepared for the next phase of the project.

While container logistics starts, the next phase begins in parallel: the continuous transport of goods from the plant to the port. The next part of the series shows how this process works in detail and which challenges arise as a result.