Modelling and optimization of empty container reuse: A real case study

This paper presents a real case problem of empty container reuse. The aim of this work is to optimize empty containers reuse between regional consignees, shippers, and port terminal. The minimizing cost consists of reducing the movements of empty containers from port terminal to depot, from consignees to depot, and from depot to shippers. Several constraints must be satisfied as: the empty containers which are needed for shippers must be satisfied, the consignees must be able to supply the empty containers to shippers, and the depot is able to store only the given empty containers. After the definition of real case situation, a mathematical model is presented and explained, then solved by ldquosolverrdquo Excel. The results prove the relevance of this model which reduces the current operations costs.