A STUDY OF FULL AND LESS-THAN-FULL CONTAINER BOOKING FOR FEASIBILITY ANALYSIS OF DEVELOPING TEMPERATURE-CONTROLLED LESS-THAN-FULL CONTAINER BOOKING SOFTWARE FOR INTERNATIONAL SEA FREIGHT

Abstract

Abstract— This study investigates the booking processes of Full Container Load (FCL) and Lessthan-Container Load (LCL) shipments and evaluates the feasibility of developing a temperaturecontrolled LCL container booking software for international maritime transport. A mixed-methods
approach was employed, combining quantitative data from 393 respondents and qualitative insights
from in-depth interviews with 18 key informants. The population consisted of 23,100 individuals from
export companies and freight forwarding firms in Thailand. Descriptive statistics and content analysis
were applied to analyze the data. The findings indicate that temperature-related factors, particularly
the type of temperature-sensitive goods and required temperature levels, are the most critical
determinants in container booking decisions. Overall, booking factors were rated at a high level,
reflecting strong awareness of product quality and logistics efficiency. The feasibility assessment of
the proposed temperature-controlled LCL booking software was also rated highly, especially in terms
of technological readiness and market potential. Qualitative results further reveal that such a platform
could significantly reduce logistics costs for small and medium-sized exporters, enhance flexibility in
shipment planning, and improve transparency through real-time monitoring and system integration.
Additionally, the development of domestic software is expected to reduce reliance on foreign
platforms and strengthen national digital capabilities.In conclusion, the development of a temperaturecontrolled LCL container booking platform is both technically and commercially feasible, offering a
practical solution to improve logistics efficiency, support SMEs, and enhance the competitiveness of
Thailand’s export sector in international maritime trade.