Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the perplexing logistics routes taken by express deliveries in China, highlighting a case where a package of lamb from Gansu to Chengdu took an indirect route via Nanjing, raising questions about efficiency and resource allocation in modern logistics [1][2][3]. Group 1: Logistics Operations - The delivery route for the lamb involved a journey of over 2900 kilometers instead of the direct 600 kilometers, illustrating a complex logistics operation that seems counterintuitive to consumers [1][2]. - The logistics process involves packages being routed through major hubs, such as Nanjing, which serves as a central distribution point for express deliveries in China [5][6]. - The "Y" shaped route taken by the package symbolizes the modern logistics challenges where consumers question the efficiency of such operations despite technological advancements [2][3]. Group 2: Economic Considerations - The logistics companies utilize an "axle-radial distribution model" to consolidate packages at central hubs, which helps in achieving economies of scale and reducing costs [6][7]. - The cost of shipping a single package is significantly higher when not consolidated, emphasizing the need for logistics companies to optimize routes for cost efficiency [8][9]. - The logistics industry's approach to routing is a calculated decision balancing cost, efficiency, and network stability, which may appear irrational to consumers but is strategically sound [7][8]. Group 3: Hub Selection and Strategy - Major logistics companies, including China Post and SF Express, have strategically chosen hub locations based on factors like traffic infrastructure, regional economic potential, and government planning [9][10]. - The establishment of logistics hubs in cities like Nanjing and Hubei is part of a broader national strategy to enhance logistics efficiency across the country [11][12]. - The future of logistics in China aims to create a more interconnected and efficient network that minimizes unnecessary detours while maximizing operational efficiency [12][13].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the perplexing logistics routes taken by express deliveries in China, highlighting a case where a package from Lanzhou to Chengdu was routed through Nanjing, raising questions about efficiency and resource allocation in modern logistics systems [1][3][5]. Group 1: Logistics Operations - The delivery route taken by the package involved a detour of over 2800 kilometers instead of a direct flight of 660 kilometers, which confuses consumers expecting direct shipping [1][3]. - The response from EMS indicated that the routing through Nanjing is standard procedure, as it serves as a central hub for their national air network [5][6]. - This routing strategy is not unique to China Post; other companies like SF Express also utilize centralized hubs for efficiency, particularly for long-distance deliveries [6][7]. Group 2: Economic Rationale - The "detour" in logistics is explained by the "hub-and-spoke" model, which allows for cost reduction and efficiency through centralized sorting and distribution [7][8]. - The cost of shipping is significantly lower when packages are consolidated; for instance, shipping 100 packages from Lanzhou to Chengdu costs approximately 3200 yuan, averaging 32 yuan per package, compared to 744 yuan for a single package [9]. - The logistics industry operates on a model where timely delivery is prioritized, and as long as packages arrive within the promised timeframe, the routing decisions are deemed optimal from a cost-efficiency perspective [8][9]. Group 3: Hub Selection and Strategy - Major logistics companies have strategically chosen locations for their hubs based on factors like traffic conditions, land costs, and regional economic potential, with a focus on new first-tier cities and key nodes [12][13]. - The establishment of logistics hubs aligns with national planning, as seen in the selection of cities like Nanjing and Changsha, which are part of the national logistics hub framework [15][16]. - The future of logistics aims to create a more interconnected network that minimizes unnecessary detours while optimizing for cost and efficiency, leveraging data-driven decision-making [16][17].