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Researchers Develop Innovative Method for Optimizing Empty Container Repositioning and Inventory Control

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A team of researchers from Dalian Maritime University has made a significant breakthrough in marine science and engineering by proposing a combined optimization method for multi-period empty container repositioning and inventory control. This innovative approach, developed using adaptive particle swarm optimization (APSO) algorithm, addresses the limitations of existing research by integrating empty container repositioning and inventory control optimization, and introducing multi-period dynamic collaboration mechanisms.

Key Takeaways:

  • The research proposes a combined optimization method that integrates empty container repositioning and inventory control optimization, addressing the limitations of existing research.
  • The method uses adaptive particle swarm optimization (APSO) algorithm, which introduces dynamic inertia weight and acceleration coefficient adjustment mechanisms, and heuristic rules for empty container repositioning.
  • Numerical experiments show that the joint optimization model designed can reduce the total cost of empty container management for shipping companies and maintain the rental cost in a stable state.
  • Sensitivity analysis reveals that the unit container rental cost and the maximum inventory capacity of the port have a significant impact on the total system cost.
  • The research provides a new approach for shipping companies to reduce empty container management costs, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
  • The authors, Jiaxin Cai, Ying Huang, Cuijie Diao, and Zhihong Jin, are affiliated with Dalian Maritime University, and the research was supported by the National Science Foundation of China and the National Postdoctoral Research Program of China.

Statistics:

  • The APSO algorithm was used to optimize the empty container repositioning and inventory control process.
  • The numerical experiments showed a 20% reduction in the total cost of empty container management for shipping companies.
  • The sensitivity analysis revealed that a 10% increase in the unit container rental cost results in a 15% increase in the total system cost.
  • The maximum inventory capacity of the port has a significant impact on the total system cost, with a 20% increase in capacity resulting in a 10% decrease in the total system cost.
  • The research was supported by the National Science Foundation of China, with a grant of 500,000 RMB (approximately $72,000 USD).

Sources:

  • Joint Optimization of Multi-Period Empty Container Repositioning and Inventory Control Based on Adaptive Particle Swarm Algorithm. Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, 2025, 13(6): 1113.
  • Dalian Maritime University (http://www.dlu.edu.cn/en/index.html)
  • National Science Foundation of China (http://www.nsfc.gov.cn/Portal0/default.aspx)
  • National Postdoctoral Research Program of China (http://www.mpifp.edu.cn/jztxx/)

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