Multi-objective container transport optimization on intermodal networks based on mathematical model

Abstract

International container shipping is one of the most dynamic economic sectors of the last few years. In terms of value, global seaborne container trade is believed to account for approximately 60 percent of all world seaborne trade, and was valued at around 5.6 trillion U.S. dollars in 2010. Reflecting the sharp growth in world trade, global container traffic was 7 times higher in 2011 than in 1990. The global container trade increased by 4.7% in 2013 and by the end of 2014 it should reach 684 million TEU. The development of container transport in recent years marks a constant intention for increased cargo flows. This paper analyzed multi-objective container transport optimization on intermodal transportation networks from Far East to Serbia through selected Mediterranean ports (Koper, Rijeka, Bar, Thessaloniki and Constanza) composed by two legs. First leg (ocean freight) observed the six world's largest container operators (Maersk Line, Mediterranean Shipping Company, CMA CGM, Evergreen Line, China Ocean Shipping Company and Hapag-Lioyd) with theirs different type of services. The second leg of the chain represents the inland component of the distribution, in which containers are routed from gateways to final destination, by road, rail or barge. The research used evolutionary multi-objective mathematical model. Our model observed multi-objective optimization, minimizing transportation cost, transit time and emissions. Inclusion of more objectives into the model we obtain accurate information to the observed objects at the same time. Cost and transit time are the two most common considerations in transport planning problems. Results provide an optimal route with shortest transit time, lowest transportation cost and minimum of emissions between Far East and Serbia and give us the possibility of observation the group of all possible solutions, which are ranked in ascending particular order.