Challenges and Opportunities for Applying Meta-Heuristic Methods in Vehicle Routing Problems: A Review †

Abstract

The Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) is related to determining the route of several vehicles to distribute goods to customers efficiently and minimize transportation costs or optimize other objective functions. VRP variations will continue to emerge as manufacturing industry production distribution problems become increasingly complex. Meta-heuristic methods have emerged as a powerful solution to overcome the complexity of VRP. This article provides a comprehensive review of the use of meta-heuristic methods in solving VRP and the challenges faced. A review of popular meta-heuristic methods is presented, including Simulated Annealing, Genetic Algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization, and Ant Colony Optimization. The advantages of each method in solving the VRP and its role in solving complex distribution problems are discussed in detail. Challenges that may be encountered in using meta-heuristics for VRPs are analyzed, along with strategies to overcome these challenges. This article also recommends further research that includes adaptation to more complex VRP variants, incorporation of meta-heuristic methods, parameter optimization, and practical implementation in real-world scenarios. Overall, this review explains the important role of meta-heuristic methods as intelligent solutions to increasingly complex distribution and logistics challenges.