Optimization of sorting systems in destination distribution centers of business-to-consumer courier companies

Abstract

We analyzed the workflow of sorting systems in destination distribution centers of current courier companies and identified problems. Subsequently, two points of view were put forth regarding the optimization of sorting systems: the first is to apply radio frequency identification technology (RFID) to sorting systems and vertically optimize the sorting process inside the courier companies; the second is to implement a sharing mechanism for sorting systems to integrate sorting systems of courier companies horizontally. Further, data regarding manual sorting systems and automated assembly line sorting systems were compared through simulation. The results show that when actual daily processing capacity is higher than the processing capacity at the inflection point, automatic assembly line sorting systems are more economical and efficient than manual sorting systems.