Initialization of the Benders master problem using valid inequalities applied to fixed-charge network problems

► We study the application of Benders decomposition to the fixed-charge network problem. ► A method for the initialization of Benders master problem is presented. ► Master problem is initialized by a series of generally applicable valid inequalities. ► Initializing the master problem, the algorithm starts from narrower bounds. ► This method significant decreases the number of iterations and the CPU solution time.