Loading optimization of palletized products on trucks

In this paper we analyze the application of an optimization model to solve problems of arranging products (packed in boxes) on pallets, and arranging loaded pallets on trucks. Initially the model is applied to solve thousands of randomly generated experiments. Then, In order to assess the effectiven ess of the solutions in practice, the model is applied to two Brazilian cas e studies: a food company distribution center and a large wholesale distrib ution center. We also discuss the use of this approach for optimizing the s izes of packages, pallets and trucks. In particular, we analyze the perform ance of the Brazilian standard pallet (PBR), adopted by the Brazilian Assoc iation of Supermarkets (ABRAS) and recommended by the Brazilian Logistics A ssociation (ASLOG), in comparison with other standard pallets. By examining not only the loading of products on pallets, but also the loading of palle ts on trucks, we can obtain global utilization indices which are useful to evaluate the economical performance of unit load systems in the logistics c hain of a company. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.