A two-step optimization model for the pre- and end-haulage of containers at intermodal freight terminals

Abstract

The paper focuses on the optimization of containers pre- and end-haulage by road in intermodal terminals, which is one of the most critical factors in door to door transport effectiveness and profit. We present an optimization model that allows solving in an exact and optimal way the vehicle routing and fleet management problems. The model comprises two steps: first it optimizes the distance traveled by road, enabling to match a delivery with a pick up; the second step is devoted to minimizing the number of vehicles required for the deliveries, while satisfying the routes obtained from the previous step. The proposed optimization model is applied to a real case study to test its effectiveness.