Transshipment Point Design – Enabling Cooperative Vehicle Routing

Abstract

Efficient loading and unloading of trucks is a key challenge in logistics, where long turnaround times and space constraints often limit system performance. Existing solutions either focus on full truckload automation from the rear or rely on forklift-based side access, both of which lack the flexibility and space efficiency required at transshipment points. To address this gap, this paper introduces a novel concept for autonomous side-loading and unloading of boxed pallets using an overhead crane system. The prototype integrates standardized industrial components with custom-designed load handling devices and an AI-based control system capable of detecting, localizing, and handling boxed pallets without human intervention.

In addition to the technical realization, an analytical performance estimation model is developed to quantify travel times and reshuffling operations during pallet transfers. The model explicitly accounts for load security requirements, which distinguish truck-based reshuffling from warehouse-based multi-deep storage systems. Results provide a framework for evaluating the efficiency of the proposed system and offer insights for the design and operation of future automated transshipment points.