Development of an integrated system for distribution planning in supply chain

Abstract

Distribution planning, which includes Vehicle Routing and Scheduling Problem (VRSP), has become an important element in Supply Chain impacting its service level and efficiency. Computer Aided Routing and Scheduling (CARS) has been developed and implemented, which can handle complicated distribution models using advanced heuristic optimization algorithms. A classification scheme is introduced to classify various types of routing and scheduling problems in a structured manner, based on the main objects of VRSP. The integrated system described in this paper can manage the dynamic aspects of the Supply Chain in practice. The modelling and solution approach in the CARS optimization engine, its user interface, sample performance measurements, and planning and operational features of the system are described in detail.