Inter-site transportation management device, inter-site transportation management system, and inter-site transportation management method

Abstract

This will enable a significant increase in the loading capacity of transportation methods, thereby reducing transportation costs and environmental impact. [Solution] The delivery management server 1 collects destination information and availability information of trucks (transportation means) from the truck management terminal 4, and availability information of bases from the base management terminal 3. Based on the destination information and availability information of trucks and the availability information of bases, it formulates a transportation plan to transport goods between bases using the available space in trucks. If a transportation plan can be formulated for at least a portion of the target goods, it proceeds to the process of implementing the transportation plan. On the other hand, if a transportation plan cannot be formulated, it repeats the information collection and transportation plan formulation at a predetermined timing until a transportation plan can be formulated for all of the target goods.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inter-site transportation management device, an inter-site transportation management system, and an inter-site transportation management method for managing the transportation of goods between bases.

Background Art

[0002] There are standard delivery-type goods with a specified delivery deadline and slow delivery-type goods for which the delivery deadline is not strictly defined. In the case of slow delivery-type goods, since there is some leeway in the delivery schedule, if it is possible to devise a way to effectively utilize the empty space in the truck and improve the loading rate of the truck, the delivery fee can be kept low, and the environmental load can be reduced by reducing the CO2 emissions.

[0003] Regarding the delivery of such slow delivery-type goods, conventionally, there is a known technique (see Patent Document 1) in which the goods are temporarily stored at a base on the delivery route of the goods to improve the loading rate of the truck. In this technique, in addition to improving the loading rate of the truck, an appropriate facility where the goods can be temporarily stored other than the warehouse can be used as a storage location, or a transportation means other than a dedicated freight vehicle operated by a transportation company can be appropriately used, so that an effect of reducing the costs related to delivery is expected.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Conventional technologies improve truck loading rates by altering truck schedules and accumulating as much cargo as possible at hubs along the delivery routes. However, there are limitations to altering truck schedules, and conventional technologies have the problem of not being able to sufficiently increase truck loading rates.

[0006] Therefore, the main objective of the present invention is to provide an inter-base transportation management device, an inter-base transportation management system, and an inter-base transportation management method that can sufficiently increase the loading rate of transportation means, reduce transportation costs, and reduce environmental impact. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The inter-base transportation management device of the present invention is an inter-base transportation management device in which a processor executes a process for managing the transportation of goods between bases, and is connected via a network to a transportation means management device that manages the means of transporting goods. The processor collects information by gathering destination information and availability information of the means of transport from the transportation means management device, and based on the destination information and availability information of the means of transport, it formulates a transportation plan to transport goods between bases using the available space of the means of transport. If the transportation plan can be formulated for at least a portion of the goods to be transported, the process proceeds to the step of implementing the transportation plan. On the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, the information collection and the formulation of the transportation plan are executed again at a predetermined timing, and the information collection and the formulation of the transportation plan are repeated until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the goods to be transported.

[0008] Furthermore, the inter-base transportation management system of the present invention comprises an inter-base transportation management device for managing the transportation of goods between bases, and a transportation means management device connected to the inter-base transportation management device via a network for managing the means of transporting goods. The inter-base transportation management device collects information by gathering destination information and availability information of the means of transport from the transportation means management device, and based on the destination information and availability information of the means of transport, it formulates a transportation plan for transporting goods between bases using the available space of the means of transport. If the transportation plan can be formulated for at least a portion of the goods to be transported, the system proceeds to the step of implementing the transportation plan. On the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, the system repeats the information collection and transportation plan formulation at a predetermined timing until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the goods to be transported.

[0009] Furthermore, the inter-base transportation management method of the present invention is an inter-base transportation management method that causes a processor to execute a process for managing the transportation of goods between bases, and includes information collection to collect destination information and availability information of transportation means from a transportation means management device that manages transportation means for transporting goods, a transportation plan to transport goods between bases using the available space of the transportation means based on the destination information and availability information of the transportation means, and if the transportation plan can be formulated for at least a portion of the goods to be transported, the process proceeds to the step of implementing the transportation plan, on the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, the information collection and the formulation of the transportation plan are executed again at a predetermined timing, and the information collection and the formulation of the transportation plan are repeated until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the goods to be transported. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, the transportation plan, which utilizes the available space in the transport vehicle to transport goods between locations, is repeatedly formulated until it can be implemented for all of the goods to be transported. This allows the loading rate of the transport vehicle to be sufficiently increased, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Overall configuration diagram of the inter-base transportation management system according to the first embodiment [Figure 2] Diagram illustrating the status of bulk transportation. [Figure 3] Diagram illustrating the situation of divided transport [Figure 4] Block diagram showing the general configuration of the delivery management server. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the content of the information provided to the delivery management server from user terminals, branch management terminals, and truck management terminals. [Figure 6] A sequence diagram illustrating the process from when the sender requests delivery of a package until the sender brings the package to the delivery hub. [Figure 7] A sequence diagram outlining the processes involved in developing a transportation plan for all accepted cargo. [Figure 8] A sequence diagram illustrating the process of securing transportation by paying shipping fees and securing storage space by paying storage fees. [Figure 9] A sequence diagram illustrating the process involved in transporting goods from the originating hub to the destination hub. [Figure 10] A sequence diagram illustrating the process that takes place when all accepted packages arrive at the delivery hub and are picked up by the recipient. [Figure 11] A flowchart illustrating the process involved in creating a transportation plan on the delivery management server. [Figure 12] An explanatory diagram showing an overview of the storage quantity adjustment system according to the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] A first invention made to solve the above problems is an inter-site transport management device in which a processor executes a process for managing the transport of goods between sites, and is connected via a network to a transport means management device that manages transport means for transporting goods. The processor performs information collection to collect the destination information and availability information of the transport means from the transport means management device, and based on the destination information and availability information of the transport means, formulates a transport plan for transporting goods between sites using the available space of the transport means. When the transport plan can be formulated for at least a part of the target goods, the process proceeds to the step of implementing the transport plan. On the other hand, when the transport plan cannot be formulated, the information collection and the formulation of the transport plan are executed again at a predetermined timing, and the information collection and the formulation of the transport plan are repeated until the transport plan can be implemented for all of the target goods.

[0013] According to this, the formulation of the transport plan for transporting goods between sites using the available space of the transport means is repeated until the transport plan can be implemented for all of the target goods. As a result, the loading rate of the transport means can be sufficiently increased, the cost related to transport can be reduced, and the environmental load can be reduced. The timing at which the information collection and the formulation of the transport plan are repeatedly executed is not particularly limited. For example, the information collection and the formulation of the transport plan may be executed once a day.

[0014] Further, in a second invention, when the transport plan can be formulated for at least a part of the target goods, the processor transmits a transport request for the goods to the transport means management device, and when receiving a transport acceptance notice from the transport means management device indicating that the transport request has been accepted, the processor finalizes the transport plan and proceeds to the step of implementing the transport plan. On the other hand, when the transport plan cannot be formulated and when the transport acceptance notice cannot be received from the transport means management device, the information collection and the formulation of the transport plan are executed again at a predetermined timing.

[0015] According to this, the formulated transport plan can be surely implemented.

[0016] Moreover, the third invention is configured such that a base management device is connected via a network, and the processor, as the information collection, collects the destination information and availability information of the transportation means, and also collects the availability information of the base from the base management device, and formulates a transportation plan for transporting goods between bases based on the destination information and availability information of the transportation means and the availability information of the base.

[0017] According to this, it is possible to reliably avoid the inconvenience that goods cannot be delivered from the transportation means to the base when the transportation means arrives at the base that is the destination.

[0018] Moreover, the fourth invention is configured such that the processor formulates a transportation plan for transporting the goods brought in by the sender to the base of the delivery origin to the base of the delivery destination where the recipient picks up the goods.

[0019] According to this, the delivery from the sender to the recipient can be carried out at low cost.

[0020] Moreover, the fifth invention is configured such that the processor formulates a transportation plan for transporting the articles stored at each base as goods from one base to another base.

[0021] According to this, the adjustment of the storage quantity between bases can be carried out at low cost.

[0022] Furthermore, the sixth invention comprises an inter-base transportation management device for managing the transportation of goods between bases, and a transportation means management device connected to the inter-base transportation management device via a network for managing the transportation means used to transport goods. The inter-base transportation management device collects information by gathering destination information and availability information of the transportation means from the transportation means management device. Based on the destination information and availability information of the transportation means, it formulates a transportation plan for transporting goods between bases using the available space of the transportation means. If a transportation plan can be formulated for at least a portion of the goods to be transported, the system proceeds to the step of implementing the transportation plan. On the other hand, if a transportation plan cannot be formulated, the system repeats the information collection and transportation plan formulation at a predetermined timing until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the goods to be transported.

[0023] According to this, similar to the first invention, the loading capacity of the transport means can be sufficiently increased, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact.

[0024] Furthermore, the seventh invention is an inter-base transportation management method that causes a processor to execute a process for managing the transportation of goods between bases, comprising: collecting information from a transportation means management device that manages the means of transporting goods, collecting destination information and availability information of the means of transport; formulating a transportation plan to transport goods between bases using the available space of the means of transport based on the destination information and availability information of the means of transport; proceeding to the step of implementing the transportation plan if the transportation plan can be formulated for at least a portion of the goods to be transported; on the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, the information collection and the formulation of the transportation plan are executed again at a predetermined timing, and the information collection and the formulation of the transportation plan are repeated until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the goods to be transported.

[0025] According to this, similar to the first invention, the loading capacity of the transport means can be sufficiently increased, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact.

[0026] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0027] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is an overall configuration diagram of the delivery management system (including the inter-site transportation management system) according to the first embodiment.

[0028] This system manages the process from receiving a package from the sender to transporting it by truck (transportation method) and handing it over to the recipient. The system comprises a delivery management server 1 (inter-site transportation management device), a user terminal 2 (user device), a base management terminal 3 (base management device), and a truck management terminal 4 (transportation method management device). The delivery management server 1 is connected to the user terminal 2, base management terminal 3, and truck management terminal 4 via a network such as the Internet.

[0029] In this system, first, the sender requests delivery of a package using user terminal 2 and then brings the package to a nearby location (the originating location). Next, delivery management server 1 searches for a truck that can transport the accepted package, creates a transportation plan to transport the package from the originating location to the destination location by truck, and requests the transportation manager to transport the package based on that transportation plan via truck management terminal 4. At this time, the transportation manager decides whether or not to accept the request based on their own circumstances. For example, if there is ample time for loading and unloading the package and the transportation will not be a significant burden, they will decide to accept the request. Next, when the transportation manager responds to delivery management server 1 using truck management terminal 4 to accept the transportation request, delivery management server 1 confirms the transportation plan. As a result, the truck transports the package from the originating location to the destination location, and the consignee can pick up the package at the destination location.

[0030] During this process, at the originating hub, the packages are temporarily stored from the time the sender brings them in until they are handed over to the truck. Similarly, at the destination hub, the packages are temporarily stored from the time they are unloaded from the truck until the recipient picks them up.

[0031] Furthermore, in this system, when a sender requests delivery of a package, they pay a delivery fee to the delivery service provider. The delivery service provider also pays a storage fee to the provider of the base (base operator) when securing a storage space for the package at the base. The delivery service provider also pays a transportation fee to the provider of the truck (transportation method) when securing a truck to transport the package.

[0032] The delivery management server 1 accepts delivery requests made by shippers using the user terminal 2. The delivery management server 1 also creates a transportation plan for transporting the accepted packages by truck from the originating hub to the destination hub, and requests the transportation of the packages based on that transportation plan from the transportation manager via the truck management terminal 4. The delivery management server 1 also accepts payment of delivery fees from shippers, processes payments for storage fees to the hub operators, and processes payments for transportation fees to the truck operators.

[0033] On user terminal 2, the user (sender) can perform operations such as requesting delivery.

[0034] The base management terminal 3 manages the bases. For example, the base management terminal 3 manages the storage status of goods at the bases, the status of goods being brought in and out, etc. The base management terminal 3 also provides information on the availability of bases (information on available space) to the delivery management server 1. Furthermore, the base manager can perform operations related to the delivery of goods by shippers, the loading and unloading of goods by trucks, and the pickup of goods by consignees using the base management terminal 3.

[0035] The truck management terminal 4 manages trucks (means of transport). For example, the truck management terminal 4 manages the loading status of trucks. The truck management terminal 4 also provides the delivery management server 1 with information on the availability of trucks in operation (information on available space) and destination information (information on departure and destination). Furthermore, the truck management terminal 4 allows transport managers to view transport requests from the delivery management server 1 and to perform operations to respond to transport requests.

[0036] The delivery management server 1 is operated by the operator of the delivery service provided by this system. The base management terminal 3 is operated by the base operator. The source base and destination base may or may not have the same operator. The truck management terminal 4 is operated by the transportation company that operates the trucks. The truck management terminal 4 is operated by each transportation company.

[0037] Furthermore, each of the truck management terminals 4 may belong to a different transportation company, or multiple truck management terminals 4 may be operated by the same transportation company. Transportation companies may be large companies operating many trucks, or small companies operating only one or a few trucks. In addition, truck drivers may operate as individual contractors and undertake the transportation of goods.

[0038] Furthermore, the site management terminal 3 may manage only one site, or it may manage multiple sites. Also, the site management terminal 3 may be connected to a site management server (not shown) that manages multiple sites, allowing site administrators to view and operate it.

[0039] Furthermore, the truck management terminal 4 may manage only one truck (means of transport), or it may manage multiple trucks. The truck management terminal 4 may also constitute a TMS (Transport Management System). For example, the truck management terminal 4 may be connected to the TMS server, allowing the transport manager to view and operate it.

[0040] Furthermore, the base can be any place where goods can be temporarily stored, and is not limited to warehouses dedicated to storage. For example, a place within a highway service area where goods can be stored could be used as a base. Also, if a warehouse dedicated to storage is used as a base, the base operator (warehouse operator) can expect storage fees for delivered goods as revenue separate from their original warehouse business. Also, if a facility other than a warehouse dedicated to storage is used as a base, the base operator can expect storage fees for delivered goods as revenue from delivery services separate from their original business.

[0041] Furthermore, in this embodiment, goods are transported by commercial trucks (freight transport vehicles) operated by a transport company, but the means of transporting goods are not limited to commercial trucks. For example, the means of transport may be other vehicles that travel on roads, or even railway vehicles, flying objects such as drones, or ships.

[0042] By the way, in this embodiment, only one delivery destination is set, but multiple locations may be set as delivery destinations. Specifically, when a sender requests delivery of a package, the sender specifies the delivery destination, but if there are multiple locations where the recipient can pick up the package, the sender may specify multiple locations as delivery destinations. In this case, the delivery management server 1 determines the delivery destination when formulating the transportation plan.

[0043] Next, we will explain bulk transport and divided transport. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the situation of bulk transport. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the situation of divided transport.

[0044] As shown in Figure 2, if there is enough space in the truck to accommodate all of the accepted packages, the packages will be transported together in one truck. In the example shown in Figure 2, five packages are brought to the distribution center by the sender, and these five packages are transported together in one truck.

[0045] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 3, if there is not enough space in a truck to accommodate all of the entrusted cargo, the cargo will be divided and transported across multiple trucks. In the example shown in Figure 3, three trucks are sequentially selected as suitable for transporting the entrusted cargo, and of these, eight items are divided and transported across two trucks.

[0046] Of these, the first truck departing on day 1 will see its load factor increase from 37.5% to 100% because it accepted a cargo transport request. The second truck departing on day 1 will remain at a load factor of 37.5% because it declined a cargo transport request due to reasons such as not being able to secure time for loading and unloading cargo at the base. The third truck departing on day 2 will see its load factor increase from 50% to 87.5% because it accepted a cargo transport request. Overall, the load factor will increase from 41.6% to 75.0%.

[0047] In the case of split shipments, the shipments are stored at the originating hub until all of the accepted shipments have been loaded onto trucks. Meanwhile, at the destination hub, the shipments are stored from the time the first shipment arrives until the recipient comes to pick them up. The recipient is then notified to come and pick up their shipment once all the shipments have arrived.

[0048] In the case of split transport, all that is required is that there is available space in the trucks that meet the destination requirements, that is, trucks that can pass through the origin and destination hubs. In other words, the trucks that meet the destination requirements only need to carry the cargo in the amount of space available. Therefore, with split transport, the trucks entrusted with transporting the cargo are not limited compared to single transport. Thus, trucks entrusted with transporting the cargo can be secured easily and quickly. In addition, with split transport, cargo is transported using the small amount of available space in the trucks, which has a significant effect on improving the loading rate of the trucks. As a result, the transport fees paid to truck operators (transportation companies) can be kept low, and a significant reduction in CO2 emissions can be achieved.

[0049] Furthermore, in this system, as a general rule, accepted shipments are transported in separate shipments. If a truck capable of transporting all the accepted shipments together happens to be available, the shipments will be transported in a single shipment. On the other hand, the shipper may specify single shipment. In this case, the number of trucks that can be entrusted with transporting the shipment is limited, resulting in higher shipping costs. In the case of single shipment, dynamic pricing may be adopted, where the shipping cost is set according to the truck's loading rate (the amount of available space). For example, the shipping cost may be set so that it is lower when the loading rate is low and higher when the loading rate is high.

[0050] Furthermore, in this system, as a general rule, the sender does not need to specify a delivery deadline. In this case, for example, the sender may accept a best-effort contract to deliver the package to the destination hub as quickly as possible without guaranteeing a specific arrival date and time. This allows the sender to select a truck based on its cost, thus further reducing shipping costs. On the other hand, the sender may be allowed to specify a delivery deadline. In this case, the number of trucks available for transporting the package will be limited, resulting in higher shipping costs.

[0051] Incidentally, in this system, goods are transported using the empty space in the truck, so the loading rate of the truck improves, and CO2 emissions are reduced. In particular, only the empty space in the truck is reduced, and other transportation conditions do not change. Therefore, it becomes easy to visualize the contribution to decarbonization. Specifically, the contribution to decarbonization is calculated using the following formula based on the initial loading rate, i.e., the loading rate with the initial empty space, and the current loading rate, i.e., the loading rate with the additional goods loaded. Here, the carbon cost is an index calculated in advance based on, for example, the CO2 emissions of the means of transportation (truck, etc.). Contribution to decarbonization = Transportation distance × Carbon cost × ((Current load factor) - (Initial load factor)) In addition, as an indicator of contribution to decarbonization, the reduction in CO2 emissions itself may be calculated based on changes in the truck's loading rate.

[0052] Furthermore, since this system utilizes the available space in trucks for transporting goods, the transportation fees paid to truck operators (transportation companies) can be kept low. In addition, as transportation fees decrease, the delivery fees paid by shippers also decrease. On the other hand, from the perspective of truck operators (transportation companies), they can expect to receive more transportation fees than initially planned, thus increasing their revenue. Therefore, the amount of reduction in transportation fees, the amount of reduction in delivery fees, and the amount of increase in transportation revenue may be calculated.

[0053] Furthermore, the calculated contribution to decarbonization, the amount of reduction in transportation costs, the amount of reduction in delivery costs, and the amount of increase in transportation revenue may be displayed on screens of terminals connected to the delivery management server 1, specifically user terminals 2, base management terminals 3, truck management terminals 4, and delivery service management terminals (not shown) operated by this system, to present to shippers, base managers, transportation managers, and delivery service managers.

[0054] Next, we will describe the general configuration of the delivery management server 1. Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the general configuration of the delivery management server 1.

[0055] The delivery management server 1 comprises a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a processor 13.

[0056] The communication unit 11 communicates with the user terminal 2, the base management terminal 3, and the truck management terminal 4.

[0057] The memory unit 12 stores programs and other data that are executed by the processor 13.

[0058] The processor 13 performs various processes by executing programs stored in the memory unit 12. In this embodiment, the processor 13 performs processes such as transportation planning, confirmation of completion of the entire plan, and confirmation of completion of the entire transportation.

[0059] In the transportation planning process, processor 13 creates a transportation plan for transporting the accepted cargo from the originating base to the destination base by truck, based on the availability and destination information of trucks currently in operation and the availability information of the destination base. The transportation plan includes information about the trucks that will transport the cargo, information about the cargo to be loaded onto the trucks, and information about the date and time of loading the cargo onto the trucks at the originating base.

[0060] Once a transportation plan is formulated, the processor 13 requests the transportation manager to transport the goods based on that plan via the truck management terminal 4. If the processor 13 receives a response from the truck management terminal 4 confirming the transportation request, it finalizes the formulated transportation plan. On the other hand, if it does not receive a response confirming the transportation request based on the transportation plan, the processor 13 discards the formulated transportation plan.

[0061] In the process of confirming the completion of all planned shipments, processor 13 checks whether the creation of a transportation plan has been completed for all the assigned shipments. In the transportation plan creation process, the created transportation plan is finalized when a response to the transportation request based on the created transportation plan is received from the truck management terminal 4. However, if the transportation plan covers only a portion of the assigned shipments, the transportation plan is finalized only for those shipments. In this case, the creation of a transportation plan and the receipt of a response to the transportation request are repeated for all the assigned shipments until the creation of a transportation plan for all the assigned shipments is completed. Once it is confirmed that the creation of a transportation plan for all the assigned shipments is complete, the process proceeds to the process of implementing the transportation plan, that is, the process of securing transportation by paying transportation fees and securing storage space by paying storage fees.

[0062] In the process of confirming the completion of all shipments, processor 13 checks whether all assigned packages have arrived at the delivery base and whether the shipment of all assigned packages has been completed. At this time, a notification (full arrival notification) that all assigned packages have arrived at the delivery base is sent from the delivery base management terminal 3, allowing processor 13 to confirm that all assigned packages have arrived at the delivery base. Once it is confirmed that all assigned packages have arrived at the delivery base, a notification (pickup instruction) urging the user to come and pick up the packages is sent to user terminal 2.

[0063] Next, we will explain the information provided to the delivery management server 1 from user terminal 2, base management terminal 3, and truck management terminal 4. Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing the content of each piece of information.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5(A), the user terminal 2 provides the delivery management server 1 with information about the package, the origin, the destination, and the consignee. The package information, origin, destination, and consignee information are entered by the sender. The package information includes the quantity (number of items), contents, size (length, width, and height), weight, information about loading conditions (top and bottom information of the package, do not stack, etc.), and other information about the package (fragile, precision machinery, temperature conditions, etc.). The origin information includes information about the location where the sender brings the package (origin hub). The destination information includes information about the location where the consignee picks up the package (destination hub). The consignee information includes the consignee's name and PIN information (keyword, password, etc.) issued to the consignee in advance.

[0065] As shown in Figure 5(B), location information is provided from the location management terminal 3 to the delivery management server 1. Location information includes availability information and location information. Availability information is information about available space at the location. Availability information is determined based on information about goods currently stored at the location, and information about the schedule for goods being brought in and out. Location information is information about the location of the location. Location information is entered in advance by the location manager.

[0066] As shown in Figure 5(C), the truck management terminal 4 provides the delivery management server 1 with availability information and destination information. The availability information includes information about the available space in the truck's cargo bed. The destination information includes information about the truck's departure point and destination. The destination information may also include information about the route from the departure point to the destination.

[0067] In this embodiment, the delivery management server 1 formulates a transportation plan for transporting the accepted cargo from the originating base to the destination base by truck (transportation plan formulation process). The transportation plan formulation process uses information about the accepted cargo (cargo information, originating base information, and destination information) (see Figure 5(A)), information about the destination base (availability information) (see Figure 5(B)), and information about the truck (means of transport) (availability information and destination information) (see Figure 5(C)).

[0068] Next, we will explain the overview of the processes that take place in this system from the time the sender requests delivery of a package until the sender brings the package to the delivery hub. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram showing an overview of the processes performed in this system.

[0069] First, when the sender requests delivery of a package, the user terminal 2 sends a notification (delivery request notification) to the delivery management server 1. The delivery request notification includes package information, sender information, delivery destination information, and recipient information (see Figure 5).

[0070] Next, when the delivery management server 1 receives a delivery request notification from the user terminal 2, it processes the request to accept the delivery.

[0071] Next, user terminal 2 sends a notification (shipping fee payment notification) to delivery management server 1 indicating that the sender will proceed with the procedure to pay the shipping fee to the delivery service operator.

[0072] Next, when the delivery management server 1 receives a delivery fee payment notification from the user terminal 2, it processes the payment of the delivery fee. At this time, the delivery fee paid by the sender to the delivery service operator is processed as a deposit.

[0073] Furthermore, the distribution source base management terminal 3 collects availability information for the distribution source base (warehouse). This availability information includes information about available space at the distribution source base where packages can be newly stored. Next, the base management terminal 3 transmits the availability information for the distribution source base to the distribution management server 1.

[0074] Next, the delivery management server 1 determines whether or not the accepted package can be accepted at the delivery base based on the availability information received from the delivery base management terminal 3 (delivery base acceptance determination).

[0075] Next, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (acceptance / rejection notification) to the user terminal 2 regarding whether or not the accepted package can be accepted at the delivery base. Upon receiving the acceptance / rejection notification, the user terminal 2 informs the sender whether or not the package can be accepted at the delivery base (acceptance / rejection notification).

[0076] Furthermore, if the delivery management server 1 can accept the entrusted packages at the delivery base, it sends a notification (storage fee payment notification) to the delivery base management terminal 3 informing the delivery service operator that it will initiate the procedure to pay storage fees to the operator of the delivery base. At this time, the storage fee is set according to the size of the storage space secured.

[0077] Next, when the delivery source's base management terminal 3 receives a storage fee payment notification from the delivery management server 1, it processes the payment of the storage fee.

[0078] Furthermore, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (storage location reservation instruction) to the delivery location management terminal 3 instructing it to secure a storage location for the accepted packages at the delivery location base.

[0079] Next, when the delivery source's base management terminal 3 receives an instruction from the delivery management server 1 to secure a storage location, it performs the process of securing a storage location for the target package.

[0080] Next, the distribution center management terminal 3 confirms that the package has been accepted when the sender brings the package to the distribution center (package acceptance confirmation). From then on, the accepted package is stored at the distribution center until it is handed over to the truck.

[0081] Next, we will explain the overview of the processes involved in creating a transportation plan for all entrusted cargo within this system. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing an overview of the processes performed in this system.

[0082] First, the truck management terminal 4 collects availability and destination information for trucks in operation. The availability information includes information about available space where additional cargo can be loaded. The destination information includes information about the truck's departure point and destination. Next, the truck management terminal 4 transmits the availability and destination information to the delivery management server 1. As shown in Figure 7, if there are multiple truck management terminals 4, each truck management terminal 4 transmits the availability and destination information to the delivery management server 1, and the delivery management server 1 holds the availability and destination information for each truck.

[0083] Furthermore, the destination location management terminal 3 collects availability information for the destination location (warehouse). This availability information includes information about available space at the destination location where packages can be newly stored. Next, the destination location management terminal 3 transmits the availability information for the destination location to the delivery management server 1.

[0084] In addition, truck availability information, destination information, and delivery destination availability information may be collected in advance by the delivery management server 1, for example, by periodically transmitting them to the delivery management server 1 at predetermined times.

[0085] Next, the delivery management server 1 formulates a transportation plan (transportation plan formulation) for transporting the accepted cargo by truck from the originating base to the destination base, based on the truck availability and destination information received from the truck management terminal 4 and the destination base availability information received from the destination base management terminal 3.

[0086] At this time, based on the availability and destination information of trucks currently in operation, a determination is made as to whether or not there is a truck suitable for transporting the accepted cargo (transportation suitability determination process). In the transportation suitability determination, if there is a truck that satisfies the destination conditions, that is, a truck that can pass through the origin and destination hubs, and that truck has available space to load the cargo, then it is determined to be a truck suitable for transporting the accepted cargo. In addition, the transportation conditions of the cargo (such as refrigeration) are also taken into consideration in the transportation suitability determination process.

[0087] Furthermore, based on the estimated transportation schedule derived from the destination information of trucks currently in operation, a determination is made as to whether there is available space at the destination hub to store the transported goods when the truck arrives at the destination hub (storage suitability determination process). Even if a truck suitable for transporting the accepted goods is found, the transportation plan will not be finalized if there is no available space at the destination hub to store the goods when the truck arrives at the destination hub.

[0088] If a suitable truck for transporting the assigned cargo cannot be found and a transport plan cannot be formulated, the transport management server 1 will abandon formulating a transport plan for that day and try again the following day. On the other hand, even if a suitable truck for transporting the assigned cargo is found, if there is no available space at the destination hub when the truck is to be delivered to the hub, the transport management server 1 will also abandon formulating a transport plan for that day and try again the following day. Here, the transport plan formulation process is performed once a day, but it may also be performed once every half day. Alternatively, the transport plan formulation process may be performed every few hours.

[0089] Next, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (transportation request) to the truck management terminal 4, requesting the transport of the goods to a business operator that operates a truck suitable for transporting the goods, based on the planned transportation schedule.

[0090] Next, when the truck management terminal 4 receives a transport request from the delivery management server 1, it presents the details of the transport request to the transport manager. The transport manager reviews the details of the request and decides whether or not to accept the transport of the requested cargo. When the transport manager responds by accepting the transport of the requested cargo, the truck management terminal 4 sends a notification (transportation acceptance notification) to the delivery management server 1 indicating that the transport of the requested cargo has been accepted. Alternatively, when the transport manager responds by deciding whether or not to accept the transport of the requested cargo, a notification regarding whether or not the transport of the requested cargo will be accepted (transportation acceptance / rejection notification) may be sent to the delivery management server 1.

[0091] In the example shown in Figure 7, availability and destination information are collected from three truck management terminals 4. Of these, one truck management terminal 4 does not receive a transport request from the delivery management server 1 because there is no truck suitable for transporting the requested cargo. Furthermore, of the two truck management terminals 4 that sent the transport request, the transport manager does not take action to accept the transport of the requested cargo at one of the truck management terminals 4, so a transport acceptance notification is not sent to the delivery management server 1.

[0092] Next, when the delivery management server 1 receives a transportation acceptance notification from the truck management terminal 4, it checks whether the transportation plan has been completed for all accepted shipments (full plan completion check). If the transportation plan has not been completed for all accepted shipments, the process returns to collecting truck availability information, destination information, and delivery base availability information, and the process of redrawing the transportation plan for the remaining shipments is repeated.

[0093] In this process, if a partial transportation plan is created for a portion of the cargo during the initial transportation plan creation process for the cargo, the process is repeated for the remaining cargo. Furthermore, if a response to the transportation request based on that plan is not received, the created transportation plan is discarded, and the process of creating a new transportation plan is repeated.

[0094] Furthermore, once a transportation plan (partial transportation plan) for a portion of the accepted cargo has been formulated and a response confirming the request for transportation based on that partial transportation plan has been received, that partial transportation plan is finalized and ready for implementation. Therefore, even before the transportation plan for all accepted cargo has been finalized, the process proceeds to the next step (see Figure 8) to implement only the finalized partial transportation plan.

[0095] Incidentally, it is possible that multiple trucks suitable for transporting the accepted cargo—that is, trucks that satisfy the destination conditions and have available space—are found, and furthermore, the combined transport capacity of these multiple trucks exceeds the total volume of cargo to be transported. In this case, the delivery management server 1 needs to select the trucks to be transported based on predetermined criteria. For example, if 10 trucks suitable for transporting the accepted cargo are found, 3 of them are selected and transport is requested. The selection criteria in this case may be random, but for example, trucks with low transport costs may be selected, or trucks with low loading rates may be selected.

[0096] Next, we will explain the overview of the processes that take place in this system when transportation fees are paid to secure transportation methods and storage fees are paid to secure storage locations. Figure 8 is a sequence diagram showing an overview of the processes performed in this system.

[0097] First, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (transportation fee payment notification) to the truck management terminal 4 informing the delivery service operator that it will proceed with the payment of transportation fees to the truck operator (transportation company). In the case of split transport where the accepted cargo is divided and transported by multiple trucks, and each truck is operated by a different operator, the transportation fee is paid to each truck operator for the portion of the cargo they are responsible for transporting.

[0098] Next, when the truck management terminal 4 receives a shipping fee payment notification from the delivery management server 1, it processes the payment of the shipping fee.

[0099] Furthermore, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (storage fee payment notification) to the delivery destination management terminal 3 informing the delivery service operator that the procedure for paying storage fees to the operator of the delivery destination base has been initiated. At this time, the storage fee is set according to the size of the storage space secured.

[0100] Next, when the delivery destination's base management terminal 3 receives a storage fee payment notification from the delivery management server 1, it processes the payment of the storage fee.

[0101] Furthermore, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (instruction to secure means of transport) to the truck management terminal 4, instructing it to secure a truck (means of transport) to transport the accepted goods from the delivery source to the delivery destination.

[0102] Next, when the truck management terminal 4 receives an instruction from the delivery management server 1 to secure a means of transport, it performs the process of securing a truck (means of transport) to transport the requested goods from the originating base to the destination base.

[0103] Furthermore, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (storage location reservation instruction) to the delivery location management terminal 3 instructing it to secure a storage location for the accepted packages at the delivery location base.

[0104] Next, when the delivery destination's base management terminal 3 receives an instruction from the delivery management server 1 to secure a storage location, it performs the process of securing a storage location for the target package.

[0105] Next, we will explain the overview of the processes that take place in this system when transporting goods from the originating hub to the destination hub. Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing an overview of the processes performed in this system.

[0106] First, the distribution center management terminal 3 processes the transfer of goods stored at the distribution center to a truck that has come to pick them up. At this time, once the accepted goods are loaded onto the truck, the truck departs from the distribution center bound for the destination distribution center.

[0107] Meanwhile, the truck management terminal 4 confirms that the goods being stored at the delivery source have been loaded onto the truck (loading confirmation). At this time, a notification that the stored goods have been loaded onto the truck (loading notification) may be sent to the delivery management server 1.

[0108] Next, the truck management terminal 4 confirms that the truck, loaded with goods and having departed from the originating base, has arrived at the destination base (transportation confirmation), and then proceeds to hand over the goods loaded on the truck to the destination base. At this time, once the goods have been delivered from the truck to the destination base, they are stored there until the consignee picks them up.

[0109] Meanwhile, the delivery destination terminal 3 confirms that the goods have been unloaded from the truck at the delivery destination (unloading confirmation). A notification that the goods have been unloaded from the truck (unloading notification) may also be sent to the delivery management server 1.

[0110] In the case of split transport, where the accepted cargo is divided and transported across multiple trucks, the process shown in Figure 9 is repeated for each truck transporting the cargo.

[0111] Next, we will explain the overview of the processes that take place in this system when all entrusted packages arrive at the delivery base and the recipient picks them up. Figure 10 is a sequence diagram showing an overview of the processes performed in this system.

[0112] First, the delivery destination management terminal 3 confirms that all packages that it has requested to be transported by truck have arrived at the delivery destination (full arrival confirmation), and then sends a notification to the delivery management server 1 stating that all packages have arrived at the delivery destination (full arrival notification).

[0113] Furthermore, if, by the scheduled arrival date, all of the goods entrusted to the truck have not arrived at the delivery hub, a notification (non-arrival notification) indicating that the goods have not arrived at the delivery hub may be sent to the truck management terminal 4. This allows the truck operator to be aware that the goods have not arrived at the delivery hub.

[0114] Next, the delivery management server 1 receives a notification of the arrival of all packages from the destination base management terminal 3 and confirms that the transportation of all assigned packages has been completed (confirmation of completion of all transportation).

[0115] In the example shown in Figure 10, the destination base management terminal 3 confirms that all the packages have arrived at the destination base (full arrival confirmation) and sends a full arrival notification to the delivery management server 1. Alternatively, the full arrival confirmation and sending of the full arrival notification performed by the destination base management terminal 3 may be omitted, and the delivery management server 1 may confirm that all the assigned packages have arrived at the destination base and that the transportation of all assigned packages has been completed based on the unloading notification sent from the destination base management terminal 3 (see Figure 9).

[0116] Next, the delivery management server 1 sends a notification (pickup instruction) to the user terminal 2 urging them to pick up their package, as it has arrived at the delivery hub. The user terminal 2 displays to the sender that the package has arrived at the delivery hub. Once the sender confirms that the package has arrived at the delivery hub, they contact the recipient and urge the recipient to pick up the package from the delivery hub.

[0117] Next, when the recipient comes to the delivery location to pick up the package, the delivery location management terminal 3 verifies whether the person picking up the package is the actual recipient (recipient verification). At this time, the delivery location management terminal 3 obtains information from the recipient that proves they are the actual recipient (recipient verification information), such as the recipient's name or PIN information (keyword, password, etc.) issued to the recipient in advance, and performs the recipient verification process.

[0118] Next, the delivery destination terminal 3 verifies that the person picking up the package is the recipient, and then proceeds to hand over the package to the recipient. If it is not possible to verify that the person picking up the package is the recipient, the handover of the package will be refused.

[0119] In this embodiment, in the case of split transport, the packages arrive sequentially at the destination base, and once all packages have arrived at the destination base, all packages are handed over to the consignee in one go. On the other hand, even if all packages have not arrived at the destination base, the packages that have arrived at the destination base may be handed over to the consignee. In this case, each time a package arrives at the destination base, a notification that some packages have arrived at the destination base (partial arrival notification) is sent from the destination base management terminal 3 to the delivery management server 1, and a notification urging the consignee to come and pick up some of the packages at the destination base (partial pickup instruction) is sent from the delivery management server 1 to the user terminal 2.

[0120] Next, we will explain the process performed when a transportation plan is formulated on the delivery management server 1. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the steps of the process performed when formulating a transportation plan.

[0121] On the delivery management server 1, once it is confirmed that the sender has requested delivery of a package and brought it to the delivery base, the server first creates a new transportation plan for the accepted package. If it is not possible to create a transportation plan for all of the accepted packages at this time, a transportation plan is created for some of the accepted packages. Then, at a predetermined time, the server creates a new transportation plan for the remaining packages, and this process is repeated until a transportation plan has been created for all of the accepted packages.

[0122] In the delivery management server 1, the processor 13 first acquires availability information and destination information regarding trucks in operation, which are transmitted from the truck management terminal 4 and received by the communication unit 11 (ST101). The availability information includes information about available space on the truck bed where additional cargo can be loaded. The destination information includes information about the truck's departure point and destination.

[0123] Next, the processor 13 determines, based on the availability and destination information of trucks in operation, whether there is a truck suitable for transporting the accepted cargo, that is, a truck that satisfies the destination conditions and has available space (transportation suitability determination) (ST102).

[0124] If there are no trucks that meet the destination requirements and have available space (resulting in a "No" in ST102), the process returns to ST101.

[0125] On the other hand, if there is a truck that satisfies the destination conditions and has available space (Yes in ST102), the processor 13 then obtains the availability information of the destination base that has been transmitted from the destination base management terminal 3 and received by the communication unit 11 (ST103). The availability information includes information about the available space at the destination base where additional cargo can be stored.

[0126] Next, the processor 13 determines, based on the availability information of the delivery destination base, whether or not there is available space at the delivery destination base to store the entrusted goods (storage suitability determination) (ST104). At this time, it is determined whether or not there is available space at the delivery destination base to store the goods at the time the truck transporting the goods arrives at the delivery destination base.

[0127] If there is no available space at the delivery destination (indicated as No in ST104), the process returns to ST101.

[0128] On the other hand, if there is available space at the delivery destination (Yes in ST104), the processor 13 then formulates a transportation plan to transport the accepted cargo from the delivery source to the delivery destination by truck, based on the availability information and destination information of trucks currently in operation and the availability information of the delivery destination (transportation plan formulation) (ST105). At this time, the truck to transport the accepted cargo is determined based on the availability information of trucks suitable for transporting the accepted cargo and the availability information of the delivery source, and the cargo to be loaded onto the truck is also determined.

[0129] Next, the processor 13 sends a notification (transportation request) from the communication unit 11 to the truck management terminal 4, requesting the transport of the entrusted cargo to a truck operator that operates a truck suitable for transporting the entrusted cargo, based on the devised transport plan (ST106).

[0130] At this time, the truck management terminal 4 displays the details of the received transport request to the transport manager. The transport manager reviews the request and decides whether or not to accept the transport of the requested cargo. When the transport manager accepts the transport of the requested cargo, the truck management terminal 4 sends a notification (transportation acceptance notification) to the delivery management server 1 indicating that the transport of the requested cargo has been accepted.

[0131] Next, when the communication unit 11 receives a transportation assignment notification transmitted from the truck management terminal 4 (ST107), the processor 13 confirms the drafted transportation plan and determines whether or not the drafting of transportation plans has been completed for all assigned cargo (confirmation of completion of all plans) (ST108).

[0132] If the transportation plan has been completed for all the accepted cargo (Yes in ST108), this flow ends, and the process proceeds to payment of transportation and storage fees, and securing transportation and storage locations (see Figure 8).

[0133] On the other hand, if the transportation plan has not been completed for all the assigned cargo (No in ST108), the process returns to ST101 and proceeds to create a new transportation plan for the remaining cargo.

[0134] In this embodiment, a transportation plan is drawn up for transporting the entrusted cargo from the originating base to the destination base by truck. If the cargo cannot be transported all at once, a new transportation plan is drawn up for the remaining cargo, and this process is repeated until the transportation plan for all the entrusted cargo is completed.

[0135] This repeated process of creating a transportation plan is carried out regularly at predetermined intervals. For example, the transportation plan creation process may be carried out daily. Specifically, on the first day, a new transportation plan is created for the accepted cargo. If the transportation plan has not been created for all the accepted cargo, on the second day, a new transportation plan is created for the remaining cargo.

[0136] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. Points not specifically mentioned here are the same as in the previous embodiment. Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the storage volume adjustment system (including the inter-site transportation management system) according to the second embodiment.

[0137] In the delivery management system according to the first embodiment (see Figure 3), when a sender brings a package to the originating base, a truck (means of transport) transports the package from the originating base to the destination base, and the recipient can pick up the package at the destination base.

[0138] On the other hand, in the storage volume adjustment system according to this embodiment, goods are stored at a base (warehouse), and when goods are sold at stores or through online shopping, goods are shipped to the stores to replenish inventory, and also shipped to the purchasers. This system may be operated, for example, by retailers or wholesalers with bases throughout the country. Alternatively, it may be operated by a warehouse company with bases throughout the country, and goods may be stored at each base upon request from retailers or wholesalers.

[0139] At a warehouse, when there is demand for goods in the area under its jurisdiction, that is, when goods are shipped to stores or customers within that area, the amount of goods stored decreases. In particular, warehouses located in areas with high demand experience a rapid decrease in their storage capacity. Conversely, warehouses located in areas with low demand experience a slower decrease in their storage capacity. As a result, imbalances in the amount of goods stored occur between warehouses depending on the differences in demand.

[0140] This system adjusts the storage volume of goods between locations when imbalances occur in the amount of goods stored at each location due to differences in regional demand. In other words, goods are moved from locations with high storage volumes to locations with low storage volumes. This eliminates imbalances in the amount of goods stored at each location and maintains an appropriate amount of goods stored at each location.

[0141] Furthermore, this system applies an inter-location transportation management system similar to the delivery management system of the first embodiment to the transportation of goods between locations. That is, by utilizing the available space in trucks that can pass through the two locations, goods are gradually moved from one location to the other over a predetermined period of time with ample margin.

[0142] In the example shown in Figure 12, location A has a large amount of stored goods due to low demand. On the other hand, location B has a small amount of stored goods due to high demand. Therefore, goods are moved from location A to location B. Specifically, similar to the example shown in Figure 3, the goods are transported from location A to location B using the empty space of the first truck departing on day 1 and the third truck departing on day 2.

[0143] In this system, goods are stored at locations, just like in a conventional system, so there is no significant difference in storage costs at locations compared to a conventional system. On the other hand, in this system, goods can be moved from one location to another over a considerable period of time, so transportation costs can be significantly reduced compared to a conventional system.

[0144] In this embodiment, a storage volume adjustment system operated by retailers and wholesalers has been described, but the items stored at the locations in the storage volume adjustment system are not limited to goods. For example, disaster relief supplies may be stored at the locations. This makes it possible to eliminate imbalances in the amount of disaster relief supplies stored at different locations by moving the supplies between locations.

[0145] As described above, embodiments have been explained as examples of the technology disclosed in this application. However, the technology in this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and can be applied to embodiments that have been modified, replaced, added, or omitted. Furthermore, it is possible to create new embodiments by combining the components described in the above embodiments.

[0146] For example, in the first embodiment, assuming that the sender and consignee are primarily users of the delivery service (individuals or corporations), this system is used to deliver goods from one user to another. On the other hand, a use case is also conceivable in which the sender and consignee are different carriers, and this system is used to consolidate and deliver goods from one carrier to the other. In this case as well, as in the case where the sender and consignee are users of the delivery service, it is possible to significantly improve the loading rate of the means of transport. Furthermore, this system can be configured to be linked with the carrier's systems, such as a WMS (Warehouse Management System) and a TMS (Transport Management System). [Industrial applicability]

[0147] The inter-base transportation management device, inter-base transportation management system, and inter-base transportation management method according to the present invention have the effect of significantly increasing the loading rate of transportation means, reducing transportation costs, and reducing environmental impact, and are useful as inter-base transportation management devices, inter-base transportation management systems, and inter-base transportation management methods for managing the transportation of goods between bases. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0148] 1: Delivery management server (inter-site transportation management device) 2: User terminal (user device) 3: Site management terminal (site management device) 4: Truck management terminal (transportation means management device) 11: Communications Department 12: Storage section 13: Processor

Claims

1. An inter-site transportation management device in which a processor performs processing to manage the transportation of goods between sites, It is connected via a network to a transportation means management device that manages the means of transporting goods. The aforementioned processor, Information collection is performed to collect destination information and availability information of the means of transport from the means of transport management device. Based on the destination information and availability information of the aforementioned means of transport, a transportation plan is formulated to transport goods between bases using the available space of the means of transport. If a transportation plan has been formulated for at least a portion of the cargo, the process will proceed to the step of implementing the transportation plan. On the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, the inter-base transportation management system is characterized by repeating the information gathering and transportation plan formulation at a predetermined time until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the cargo in question.

2. The aforementioned processor, If a transportation plan has been formulated for at least a portion of the cargo, a request for the cargo to be transported is sent to the transportation means management device, and upon receiving a notification from the transportation means management device that the request has been accepted, the transportation plan is finalized and the process proceeds to the implementation of the transportation plan. On the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, or if the transportation acceptance notification cannot be received from the transportation means management device, the inter-base transportation management system according to claim 1 is characterized in that the information collection and the formulation of the transportation plan are performed again at a predetermined timing.

3. It is connected to the site management device via the network, The aforementioned processor, As part of the information gathering, destination information and availability information of the means of transport are collected, and availability information of bases is collected from the base management device. The inter-base transportation management system according to claim 1, characterized in that it formulates a transportation plan for transporting goods between bases based on destination information and availability information of the means of transport and availability information of the bases.

4. The aforementioned processor, The inter-base transportation management system according to claim 1, characterized in that it plans a transportation schedule for transporting goods brought by a sender to a distribution base to a delivery base where a consignee will pick up the goods.

5. The aforementioned processor, The inter-site transportation management system according to claim 1, characterized by formulating a transportation plan for transporting goods stored at each site as cargo from one site to another.

6. An inter-base transportation management system for managing the transportation of goods between bases, The system includes a transportation means management device that is connected via a network to the aforementioned inter-base transportation management device and manages the means of transporting goods, The aforementioned inter-base transportation management device is, Information collection is performed to collect destination information and availability information of the means of transport from the means of transport management device. Based on the destination information and availability information of the aforementioned means of transport, a transportation plan is formulated to transport goods between bases using the available space of the means of transport. If a transportation plan has been formulated for at least a portion of the cargo, the process will proceed to the step of implementing the transportation plan. On the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, the inter-base transportation management system is characterized by repeating the information gathering and transportation plan formulation at a predetermined time until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the cargo in question.

7. A method for managing inter-site transportation, which causes a processor to execute a process for managing the transportation of goods between sites, Information collection is performed from a transportation means management device that manages the means of transporting goods, by collecting destination information and availability information of the means of transport. Based on the destination information and availability information of the aforementioned means of transport, a transportation plan is formulated to transport goods between bases using the available space of the means of transport. If a transportation plan has been formulated for at least a portion of the cargo, the process will proceed to the step of implementing the transportation plan. On the other hand, if the transportation plan cannot be formulated, the method for managing inter-base transportation is characterized by repeating the information gathering and transportation plan formulation at a predetermined time until the transportation plan can be implemented for all of the cargo in question.

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