Incorporating traffic patterns to improve delivery performance
Name
697532680-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
7.31 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
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b801e8f78a940e8f5264b8024219005d
Author(s)
Dickinson, Melody J
Leifer, Jillian
Advisor(s)
Jarrod Goentzel.
Date Issued
2010
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
Traffic, construction and other road hazards impact the on-time performance of companies that operate delivery fleets. This study examines how incorporating traffic patterns in vehicle route development compares with standard, deterministic methods. We seek to understand how using historical data improves both planning and overall delivery efficiency. Our analysis contrasts manifests that were developed by an industry standard routing software tool with projections that use traffic data by benchmarking them against actual routes run by drivers. In addition to evaluating the differences between route planning tools, we explore why those differences exist, including how uncertainty is incorporated. Evidence suggests that incorporating traffic patterns into vehicle routing does produce improved solutions. Needless to say, the delivery process needs to be evaluated holistically. Our recommendations involve the various steps for creating and executing a route. Operational considerations, the potential for improving customer service, and areas for further exploration are discussed. This thesis is being conducted with sponsorship from a leading consumer products company and in coordination with the CarTel mobile sensing data project at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
Description
Thesis (M. Eng. in Logistics)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Engineering Systems Division, 2010.
Cataloged from student submitted PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 63-64).
Subjects
Engineering Systems Division.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Engineering Systems Division
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