+27124205229Economic return quantity model for a multi-type empty container management system with possible storage constraint and shared cost of shipping Containerisation has been said to be one of the most significant innovations of port management. Some ports usually tend to be more export driven and others import driven. This imbalance in the number of inbound and outbound containers necessitates movement of containers from locations or surplus to those of deficit.A port needs to cater for not only the level of containers required, but also the variety. Many factors affect the cost efficiency of container movement, and hence, that of port operations and these need to be managed in an integrated manner to optimise cost in a port.We studied the management of a multi-type container system in a port where there can be savings from joint movement of containers, both empty return and procurement of replacement containers, and where there is limited storage capacity with storage cost. We developed a model to determine the optimal integrated return and purchase cycles and quantities. We illustrated the solution approach with a numerical example and performed sensitivity analysis. We believe this problem is rife and this model can guide such management of container return and replenishment in ports operations and management.
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