A heuristic for the container loading problem: A tertiary-tree-based dynamic space decomposition approach

Zhoujing Wang, Kevin W. Li and Jason K. Levy

European Journal of Operational Research, 2008, vol. 191, issue 1, pages 86-99

Abstract: Increasing fuel costs, post-911 security concerns, and economic globalization provide a strong incentive for container carriers to use available container space more efficiently, thereby minimizing the number of container trips and reducing socio-economic vulnerability. A heuristic algorithm based on a tertiary tree model is proposed to handle the container loading problem (CLP) with weakly heterogeneous boxes. A dynamic space decomposition method based on the tertiary tree structure is developed to partition the remaining container space after a block of homogeneous rectangular boxes is loaded into a container. This decomposition approach, together with an optimal-fitting sequencing and an inner-right-corner-occupying placement rule, permits a holistic loading strategy to pack a container. Comparative studies with existing algorithms and an illustrative example demonstrate the efficiency of this algorithm.

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European Journal of Operational Research is edited by Roman Slowinski, Jesus Artalejo, Jean-Charles. Billaut, Robert Dyson and Lorenzo Peccati

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