Automation in cargo loading/unloading processes: do unmanned loading technologies bring benefits when both purchase and operational cost are considered?

Journal of Shipping and Trade

Table 3 Key specification of ALUT used in the case study

Systems	Loading plate	Transport belt	Skate⁺ system
Potential application use
Loading	×	×	×
Unloading		×	×
Suitable for the following loading unit type
Pallets	×	×	×
Cardon boxes	×	×
Modifications needed to the trailer	×
Loading/unloading speed	± 6 min/trailer	6 minuten/trailer	± 5 min/trailer
Maximum loading weight	± 30 ton	± 30 ton	± 30 ton
Key feature	Sliding plate with low mechanical resistance	Conveyor belt inside the trailer	Inflatable system inside the trailer
Main disadvantages	Fast loading of non-palletisable goods with non-standard dimensions	Loading and unloading of general goods Fully automatic loading system	Loading and unloading without any modification to the trailer
Main disadvantages	It sets stress on the cargo during the sliding process and the trailers require in some cases additional investments The end-to-end (preparing the cargo-loading–unloading) process cannot be carried out in fully automatic mode	It requires additional investments to the trailers and regular maintenance as it consists of moving mechanical parts The trailers need to be well aligned with the loading dock	It is mandatory that the pallets have no defects High initial investment The trailers need to be well aligned with the loading dock