A multi-commodity network flow model for performance evaluation in city logistics: application to the distribution of multi-tenant buildings in Tokyo

The distribution of goods in crowded city center is a major challenge. In this paper we focus on the delivery of parcels in the main multi-tenant buildings in Tokyo. The flow of parcels shipped from the carriers' depots to these building is modeled as a multi-commodity network problem. Different distribution architectures with different degrees of connectivity and integration are compared and their impact on the total travelled distance and the total number of trucks is analyzed. This study demonstrates the advantage of the new architectures proposed over the existing situation.