A freight urban distribution center design with micro-simulation support for city logistics

Abstract

The performance of a freight interchange warehouse can be improved and/or enhanced through the analysis, study and optimization of active processes for the treatment/handling of goods. This paper proposes a discrete event microsimulation model as a tool useful to design a freight interchange warehouse and, particularly, to manage the exchange of freights between heavy lorries, coming from extra-urban regions, and small electric vans used for urban distribution. In particular, the paper focuses on dimensioning the warehouse structure and handling means in order to optimize the operational activities in relation to inbound freight flows (vehicles from extra-regional areas) and outbound freight flows (urban distribution service). The micro-simulation model allowed ex-ante and ex-post evaluations proving to be a useful decision support tool in planning.