Do Foldable Containers Enhance Efficient Empty Container Repositioning under Demand Fluctuation?—Case of the Pacific Region

This study considers the empty container repositioning problem of shipping companies that use standard and 3-in-1 foldable containers with more advanced designs. A mathematical model is developed to compare total management costs various patterns in different cargo demand scenarios. Numerous scenario analyses simulations were conducted, focusing on a liner service Pacific Islands where are likely be present because imbalance between inbound outbound flows containers, including static analysis consecutive fluctuation approaches. Results show introduction depending growth rate demand, can reduced. However, introducing large number may increase repositioning. Moreover, cost reduction effect adding another containership increases cases future substantially. Furthermore, not only effectively reduces but also makes stable predictable.