HONG KONG's Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) introduction of its "Empty Pickup Appointment" scheme in October for Hong Kong alone as an alternative to an early container pickup may now be extended to the neighbouring metropolis of Shenzhen on the mainland side of the border.

The empty pick-up programme allows customers to make empty container bookings for pick-up at designated locations by phone without having to physically collect them before a specified time.

Experience since the programme launch three months ago has resulted in accelerated pick-ups, greater equipment availability and lower costs, said OOCL, which has prompted the carrier to consider its extension to Shenzhen.