Capacitated vehicle routing problem with sequence-based pallet loading and axle weight constraints

In this paper, we introduce and study the capacitated vehicle routing problem with sequence-based pallet loading and axle weight constraints. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that axle weight restrictions are incorporated in a vehicle routing model. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate that incorporating axle weight restrictions in a vehicle routing model is possible and necessary for a feasible route planning. Axle weight limits impose a great challenge for transportation companies. Trucks with overloaded axles represent a significant threat for traffic safety and may cause serious damage to the road surface. Transporters face high fines when violating these limits. A mixed integer linear programming formulation for the capacitated vehicle routing problem with sequence-based pallet loading and axle weight constraints is provided. Results of the model are compared to the results of the model without axle weight restrictions. Computational experiments demonstrate that the model performs adequately and that the integration of axle weight constraints in vehicle routing models is required for a feasible route planning.