Deterministic annealing algorithm for a time-dependent routing problem in drayage operations

Abstract

Drayage operations refer to the full truckload container transport activities that take place on a regional scale around the intermodal container terminals. They involve the transport of loaded and empty containers between these container terminals, container depots, consignees and shippers. Drayage operations are mostly performed by truck and constitute a large part of total costs of an intermodal transport. Therefore, efficient planning of these operations is an important task. Special attention should be paid to minimizing empty container movements since they are costly non-revenue generating activities.