An Optimization Model of Whole Chain from Front-end Collection to Terminal Distribution of Cold Chain Less-than-truckload Logistics

To address the complex operations and poor connection of the cold chain less-than- truckload logistics, as well as the low circulation rate, a two-stage optimization model was developed. In the first stage, the Minimum Average Dispersion model was constructed to identify the optimal cargo collection points. In the second stage, a path optimization model was established to minimize the overall cost of cold chain transportation from the trunk to the end distribution. With a numerical experiment based on the Z company, the K-means clustering algorithm and the genetic algorithm are used for the simulation and verification of the model's effectiveness. The optimal cargo collection points obtained from the experimental results reduced the average dispersion by 18.8%, making the distribution of suppliers more concentrated than cargo collection points, thereby improving the efficiency of front-end cargo collection. The optimized distribution plan had zero time window penalty cost, which improves customer satisfaction. Among the four transportation scenarios, the total cost of full cold chain transportation was the lowest, with a 69.4% reduction in total cost compared to room temperature transportation. These results indicate that selecting cargo collection points based on the location of front-end suppliers and the amount of cargo, as well as maintaining suitable cold chain conditions throughout the transportation process, can effectively optimize the overall cost of cold chain less-than-truckload logistics for logistics companies. © 2023 Science Press. All rights reserved.