Freight flow distribution of logistics network based on hierarchical variable weights

Decision making method for freight flow distribution of logistics network, whose line lengths are measured by single factor or by multifactor with constant weight, cannot take the influence of factors´ state values over their weights and the preferences of decision maker into account. Aimed to solve the problem, factors´ interactions are analyzed and accordingly the logistics network is separated to several levels from bottom to top in this paper. Based on variable weight theory, we establish a hierarchical variable weight model of logistics network, and then propose an algorithm to select paths and to distribute freight flows. Validity in application of the model and algorithm has been indicated with demonstration study.