MSVS: AN EXTENDED COMPUTER MODEL FOR TRANSPORT MODE SELECTION

This paper describes a heuristic computer model used to assist business firms and organizations in improving the utilization of their privately-owned truck fleets. The model deals with the problem of selecting between private and for-hire vehicle types as well as scheduling the routing for the privately-owned vehicles. The unique feature of the model is its extended scope to deal with (1) deliveries and pickups on the same route, (2) selection between two modes, and (3) layovers en route. Two applications are described where these additional features have helped to identify potential savings on the order of 15 per cent of the total transportation costs. (TRRL)