Simulation study on reshuffling problem in logistics operations of a container terminal yard

Container reshuffling is a main factor influencing the efficiency of container terminals. In this paper, we present a state-of-the-art discrete-event simulation model to dynamically simulate every detail of container stacking, reshuffling and retrieving operations. Unlike the existing simulation softwares, our simulation model can evaluate and compare different reshuffling rules or algorithms in real-time by animation. Firstly, the container operations (storage, retrieval and reshuffle) in dynamic environments are imitated by animation under a self-developed simulation system. Secondly, the destination locations of each incoming container and each reshuffle container determined by a selected algorithm as well as the real-time results of operations are shown on the visual interface. The simulation experiments demonstrate that the simulation model can capture the required details in the process of container stacking, retrieving and reshuffling, and it is flexible enough to support the evaluations of different reshuffling rules in container terminals.