A Method and a Software-Tool for Comparing Inbound Logistics Systems in Respect of Energy Consumption

This article introduces a method and a software-tool for comparing inbound logistics systems in respect of energy consumption. In the field of green logistics numerous methods are already existing, but mostly they focus either on the evaluation of the energy consumption of single logistics components or the improvement of the energy efficiency of logistics processes. There is no hands-on solution which can be used in the rough planning phase of logistics projects to evaluate and compare whole system configurations. With the new method we try to fill this gap by integrating existing methods to a holistic approach. It comprises three steps: “identification”, “quantification” and “aggregation and comparison”. In the identification step every system variant will be divided into subsystems and components by using a hierarchical representation. Quantification means to determine the energy consumption of every component by using physical models or reference values. In the last step the resulting energy values will be summed up to an overall figure which can be used to compare multiple system variants. The Sofware-Tool E|stimate is for the part automation of the calculation method. It comprises a component for transport logistics, one for intralogistics and one for the analysis of the aggregated consumption. In summary, the new method and software-tool enables practitioners to compare inbound logistics system variants quickly with sufficient precision. Because of its ease of application, it contributes to implement the concept of sustainability in daily business.