One of key problems for design of both handling system and the general layout planning of an automatic container terminal(ACT)is to optimize and choose horizon transportation system.Based on current statements of the handling system of full ACT in the world,we present a comparative study between AGV system and(A)SHC system by analysis of both qualitative and quantitative,which is concerned with technical parameters,productiveness,capacities,energy consumption,investment and costs,technical advantages and so on.