Capturing effects of container location dispersion on quay crane performance

Abstract

The relationship between container location dispersion for a single loading and the efficiency of quay cranes (QCs) was investigated. For this purpose, a discrete-event-based simulation model was developed to capture the container-handling process at a transshipment container terminal. A series of experiments were conducted to illustrate the effects of container location dispersion on the long-term performance of QCs and container allocation. These experiments showed that the container location dispersion has a significant effect on the distribution of loading containers. An optimal choice of container location dispersions can improve the efficiency of the QC and help to manage uncertainty at a lower cost. It is suggested that yard managers consider the workload of each berth when deciding on the location dispersion for a loading service. In addition, it was found that optimal container allocation dispersion reduces the congestion caused by time window conflicts and insufficient available equipment.