A Multi-Objective Mathematical Model for the Routing and Scheduling Problem of Heterogeneous Capacitated Vehicles with Multi-Door Cross-Docking Considering Time Window

Document Type : Scientific - Research

Authors
fatemeh khajesaeedi 1
seyed farid ghannadpour 2
1 Department of Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Iran
2 Associate Professor, Department of Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Iran
10.22119/jte.2025.511712.2736
Abstract
Many industrial companies utilize cross-docking as a logistics strategy to improve performance in costly distribution operations. In a cross-docking system, goods collected by vehicles are unloaded at inbound doors with minimal storage space and, after a short processing time, are reloaded at outbound doors. The key operational logistics and transportation challenges in cross-docking include vehicle routing and scheduling, which significantly impact cost reduction and system efficiency. This study develops a multi-objective mathematical model for the routing and scheduling of capacitated heterogeneous vehicles with time windows. The objectives of the proposed model include minimizing transportation costs and reducing vehicle arrival times at the cross-dock. The role of the cross-dock as a consolidation and distribution hub is considered to optimize routing and scheduling decisions. To solve the proposed model and handle the problem’s complexity, the AUGMECON2 algorithm is employed.
Keywords
Cross-Dock Routing
Cross-Dock Scheduling
Heterogeneous Vehicles
Time Windows
Multi-Objective Mathematical Model
Subjects
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Quarterly Journal of Transportation Engineering
Volume 17, Issue 2 - Serial Number 67
Winter 2026
Pages 5395-5415

  • Receive Date 11 March 2025
  • Revise Date 10 May 2025
  • Accept Date 19 May 2025