Modeling the mixed storage strategy for quay crane double cycling in container terminals

•A mixed storage strategy is proposed to improve the efficiency of yard operations.•The effects of the mixed storage strategy on terminal operations are analyzed.•An approach based on cycle-time models, the queueing theory and simulation is developed to evaluate the performance.•Stacking strategies are proposed, and lower bounds of yard cranes’ operation are developed.

A mixed storage strategy was proposed to improve the efficiency of yard operations and horizontal transportation to corporate with quay crane double cycling. The effects of the mixed storage strategy on terminal operations, including truck travel distance, yard crane operations and the number of required trucks, were analyzed. An approach based on cycle-time models, the queuing theory was proposed to evaluate the performances from long-term run. Results show using the mixed storage strategy, the truck travel distance can be decreased and the number of required trucks and yard crane’s operation time can be reduced by 16% and 26% respectively.