A solution framework for the multi-mode resource-constrained cross-dock scheduling problem. (March 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hermel, Dror; Hasheminia, Hamed; Adler, Nicole; Fry, Michael J.
• Is Part Of: Omega. Volume 59:Part B(2016)
• Page Start: 157
• Page End: 170
• Publication Date: 2016-03
• Subjects: Cross-dock -- Dock-door assignment -- Resource allocation -- Scheduling -- Facility logistics; Management -- Periodicals; 658.4005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.omega.2015.06.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0305-0483

Abstract

Abstract: In this paper we propose a framework for shift-level container scheduling and resource allocation decisions at a cross-dock facility. The Multi-Mode Resource-Constrained Cross-Dock Scheduling Problem (MRCDSP) approach minimizes material flow and schedules inbound and outbound containers to dock-doors such that the total processing time is minimized subject to the resource constraints at the cross-dock. While container scheduling and resource allocation problems at cross-dock facilities have been studied previously in isolation, our work is the first to consider a complete view of cross-dock operations providing optimal container to dock-door allocation, and a makespan minimizing schedule of containers to the cross-dock. We present a comprehensive framework that includes identification of container clusters to reduce the problem size, a container-to-dock-door assignment algorithm, and a container clusters scheduling model that is solvable for practically sized problems. In a comparative numeric study based on data simulating a cross-dock facility, our approach is shown to outperform current practice, reducing the average time required for processing a set of containers by 37% and reducing the weighted-distance material traveled within the cross-dock by 45%. Abstract : Highlights: We study shift-level operations management at a cross-dock. We provide a novel framework for container scheduling and resource allocation at a cross-dock facility. We show, using a comparative study, the positive impact of our suggested framework.