Solving a Three-Dimensional Bin-Packing Problem Arising in the Groupage Process: Application to the Port of Gioia Tauro

In this paper we consider the consolidation operations in the groupage process. Containers, arriving from different origins carry objects with the same destination. We address the problem of inserting objects with the same destination into a new container. It is a three-dimensional bin-packing problem where several operational constraints are taken into account. We develop a simple but effective heuristic to solve the problem. This is based on the well-known next fit procedure where the concept of multi-layer is introduced. The defined heuristic allows to save empty space in the container dealing with a high impact on the real application. We present the main features of a decision support system that can help the logistic operators to implement a consolidation/deconsolidation hub.