Industrial Innovations

Industrial Innovations

A Simulation-Based Optimization Approach for Container Feeder Transportation Services

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Industrial Engineering, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran.
2 Department of Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science & Technology, Iran.
3 Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract
Containerized transportation is widely acknowledged as one of the most efficient and cost-effective modes of freight movement in global supply chains. The adoption of containerization has substantially enhanced the efficiency of loading and unloading operations while streamlining international logistics processes. Furthermore, container-based transport contributes to reduced transit times, lower cargo handling costs, improved shipment security, minimized risk of unauthorized access from origin to destination, and more effective utilization of terminal and yard capacities. In this study, discrete-event simulation (DES) is employed as a robust modeling and analytical tool to simulate container transportation flows among the southern ports of Iran. The primary objective is to develop a statistically validated simulation model capable of accurately representing real-world operational dynamics. Additionally, the study seeks to optimize key operational processes in order to enhance system performance, improve resource utilization, and support data-driven decision-making within the container transport network.
Keywords

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  • Receive Date 22 February 2026
  • Revise Date 11 May 2026
  • Accept Date 14 May 2026