Container Corporation of India Ltd (Concor) is gearing up to introduce coastal movement of goods as part of its comprehensive multi-modal logistics strategy. This new initiative aims to provide a more affordable, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation option.

In June, Concor joined forces with the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This partnership is set to capitalize on both organizations’ infrastructure and expertise, creating a seamless and cost-effective end-to-end logistics solution for customers.

Sanjay Swarup, Chairman and Managing Director of Concor, emphasized the environmental benefits of coastal shipping. While Concor initially launched coastal shipping services in January 2019, the service was halted in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With the new collaboration with SCI, Concor is ready to resume and expand coastal shipping routes, including services from Gujarat to South India and extending to the eastern regions of the country. Swarup assured investors that these services will be operational soon.

The MoU will also allow SCI’s shipping services to extend Concor’s reach to international locations and explore coastal and inland waterways trade, offering a broad range of customizable logistics solutions for various industries.

Commodities targeted for the coastal route include waste paper, ceramic tiles, sanitary ware, soda, cotton bales, and consumer durables.

In addition to coastal shipping, Concor has been enhancing its focus on providing first- and last-mile connectivity. The company has introduced a logistics app designed to streamline these services. Swarup reported that the First Mile, Last Mile (FMLM) service has seen significant success, with a reported income of INR 82 crores in Q1FY25, marking a 35% increase year-on-year.

Looking ahead, Concor aims for a 50% growth in FMLM services for FY25. Swarup expressed confidence in achieving this target through the app’s pan-India launch and ongoing customer education efforts about the benefits of these services.