Title: Goods delivery optimisation in distribution networks with batch production

Authors: Daria Battini, Maurizio Faccio, Alessandro Persona, Pietro Vecchiato

Addresses: Department of Management and Engineering, University of Padova Stradella San Nicola, 336100 Vicenza, Italy. ' Department of Mechanics Innovation and Management, University of Padova Via Venezia, 1, 35131 Padova, Italy. ' Department of Management and Engineering, University of Padova Stradella San Nicola, 336100 Vicenza, Italy. ' Department of Management and Engineering, University of Padova Stradella San Nicola, 336100 Vicenza, Italy

Abstract: Distribution network optimisation and warehouse decentralisation are two of the most significant topics in modern Supply Chains. The aim of this paper is to present a new iterative procedure, based on a linear programming model, in order to plan goods distribution inside the supply chain under critical constraints. The model, applied to batch production, defines the best delivery policies for each product|s family. It provides possibilities to reach a more efficient distribution within the network and, at the same time, to optimise the warehouse use. A real application to test the model is presented as a result of this paper.

Keywords: distribution networks; delivery optimisation; direct delivery; distribution costs; goods shipment; transport; linear programming; supply chain management; SCM; delivery policy; batch production; product families.

DOI: 10.1504/IJECRM.2007.016021

International Journal of Electronic Customer Relationship Management, 2007 Vol.1 No.2, pp.200 - 230

Published online: 02 Dec 2007 *

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