Designing a Physical Packing Sequence Algorithm with Static Stability for Pallet Loading Problems in Air Cargo

Abstract

Large amounts of airfreight are loaded on pallets and containers for transport every day. Especially in the air cargo sector, fast and efficient pallet loading is crucial for smooth operations. Recently, scholars have proposed AI-optimized solutions for the pallet loading problem that include strongly heterogenous cargo. However, finding packing sequences that determine item loading order, receive scant attention in literature. In this research, we develop a design to solve the physical packing sequence problem that comprises requirements, features, and fitness criteria to equip an algorithm that automatically finds a physical packing sequence for a given cargo arrangement. We derive our algorithm based on previous findings and practical insights from a collaboration with a major cargo carrier. Also, we provide an integration design in combination with optimization heuristics. Our approach is implemented in a prototype, demonstrated, and evaluated on a set of real-world cargo data. Our findings reveal both the ability to find packing sequences in reasonable time and the ability to identify improvement potential with respect to stability.