A literature review and further research direction in cross-docking

Abstract

© IEOM Society International. Cross-docking is a logistic technique that can help in cutting inventory costs while increasing the goods. The paper reviews literature in cross-docking regarding to operation problems and the metaheuristic methods used for solving those problems in order to support the future research in developing a new decision models. The result showed that though there are many articles of relevance with regard to either truck or dock door, there were found very few articles that focus on the tasks scheduling in cross-docking. Thus, it needs to be stated that the research gap in the cross-docking platform would need to be filled by focusing on task scheduling and including resource capacity in models more practical in real world problems. In addition, taking into consideration other objectives or even multiple objectives could be an alternative approach for future research. Furthermore, modern technology makes cross-docking feasible and able to develop suitable business models. Therefore to enhance cross-docking operations to be a smart and intelligent logistics system especially for small and medium enterprise (SME), creating adapted concepts and design solutions should be developed for providing a systematic management of smart operation in cross-docking and synchronized to the other cross-docking problems.