Evaluating container stacking rules using simulation

Abstract

Container stacking rules are an important factor in container terminal efficiency. In this paper, we describe a discrete-event simulation model that has been used to evaluate online container stacking rules. We build on prior research and demonstrate that results obtained for smaller stacking areas are also valid for a larger stacking area. The use of information regarding container departure times (even if is imperfect) is shown to be more beneficial than the use of exchange categories. Stacking rules that take the workload of the automated stacking cranes into account outperform rules that do not. The experiments conducted with the simulation model show that it can capture the amount of detail required and that it is flexible enough to support the evaluation of the stacking rules.