A location-inventory-routing model for distributing emergency supplies

Abstract

Dynamic last-mile distribution of emergency supplies to affected people in post-disaster situations is a key emergency response task, which however is seldom addressed in the literature. To fill this gap, we present a path-based location-inventory-routing model for developing a dynamic last-mile emergency supply distribution plan, including a local distribution center, points of distribution, and demand points. The model can be applied to evolving post-hurricane situations, where candidate point of distribution sites and demands dynamically change. Both cost and equity are incorporated into the planning goal to ensure that distribution of emergency supplies is cost-efficient and fair. With a case study of the previously flooded Red Hook neighborhood in New York City during Hurricane Sandy, we show that our model outperforms different comparison models significantly. Moreover, we obtain managerial insights regarding location, inventory, and routing flexibility, which could be leveraged for post-hurricane distribution practice.