Optimizing transshipment workloads in less-than-truckload cross-docks

- We present the scheduling model to reduce transshipment workload in cross-docks.
- We develop a variable neighborhood search algorithm as the resolution approach.
- We assess the impact of external elements on transshipment workload.
- We provide recommendations to mange cross-dock operations.

This paper presents a scheduling model to enhance cross-docking operations. It attempts to reduce the transshipment workload by minimizing the total number of products that require double-handling. We formalize the problem and represent its mathematical form. Moreover, we develop a variable neighborhood search heuristic to tackle large problems. Computational results depict the effectiveness of our algorithm. Finally, we examine the influence of terminal design and truck scheduling on transshipment workload and provide recommendations to manage cross-docking process.