Scheduling reefer mechanics at container terminals

This paper discusses the scheduling of reefer mechanics at container terminals. Reefer mechanics plug and unplug reefer containers such that due times are met. We outline the resulting scheduling problem and two simple heuristics. Subsequently, we present a simulation model to analyze the scheduling methods and the reefer-related processes in a realistic dynamic framework. Some results from the simulation experiments are also presented. They demonstrate the applicability of the heuristic and the use of the simulation model in practice. The simulation study was carried out for a real container terminal in the port of Hamburg, Germany.

► A case study from a real container terminal is presented.
► The problem of scheduling reefer mechanics is introduced.
► Two simple yet effective heuristics for real-time optimization are proposed.
► The heuristics are tested using a simulation model for the entire terminal.