The quantity optimization of special containers and trucks with time windows

Normal containers do not return with vessel usually, when they are discharged. But because of high rental of special containers, more cycle operations are accomplished which include discharging laden containers, trucks transports to clients and unloading cargoes, empty containers return and being loaded on the previous vessel, higher turnover rate will be, furthermore, less rental. It is an optimization problem with many time windows to maximize cycle operations in the required time and meet the unloading time requirements of clients in terms of minimize the operation costs. This paper establishes a quantity optimization model to deal with the problem above, and applies heuristic algorithm to solve the model. The study will offer a useful method to logistics enterprises in optimizing the quantity of special containers and trucks.