Solutions for Enhanced Commercial Logistics in Cities – A Case Study of Two Different Zones in Quito – Ecuador
Supply Chain Management and Logistics in Latin America
ISBN: 978-1-78756-804-4, eISBN: 978-1-78756-803-7
Publication date: 12 November 2018
Abstract
Demand for goods/services has increased in Latin America due to urbanization, leading to a complex delivery system and increased logistical activities. In Quito, the Historic Center and La Mariscal are two zones that face logistical challenges. The objective of this chapter is to analyze the commercial logistic activities related to loading and unloading goods in these zones. To address this urban freight problem, this chapter proposes a solution through the calculation of the optimal number and location of loading and unloading bays in each zone based on actual commercial activity data. First, a delivery survey was completed in each zone regarding frequency and amount of deliveries. Then, based on the data obtained, an optimization model is proposed to determine the optimal number and location of loading and unloading bays. Finally, a simulation model of the delivery process is performed to readjust the bay’s optimal number. A total number of 75 and 98 bays were calculated to serve the total shopping district of a representative square kilometer (km2) of the Historic Center and La Mariscal. This solution aims to minimize the delivery time and the distance for deliveries, improve urban freight transportation, and reduce traffic. This study could be used as a baseline and guide for further research in urban logistics, especially in Latin America, where urban logistics is still under study. This chapter is part of a Research Project of Urban Logistics in Quito, led by Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ), in association with the Megacity Logistics Lab of MIT.
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Acknowledgements
Acknowledgments
We would like to thank Universidad San Francisco de Quito (USFQ) who supported this research as part of a Chancellor Grant 2015–2016. We thank our colleagues from the Department of Industrial Engineering of USFQ, who provided insight and expertise that greatly assisted the research.
We specifically would like to thank Daniel Merchán, PhD (c), and Researcher at MIT Megacity Logistics Lab, for guidance with the km2 methodology and comments that greatly improved the manuscript. We would also like to show our gratitude to the students from the Department of Industrial Engineering of USFQ for investing their time in conducting the surveys.
Citation
Sol, L., Juan, M.S.V., Esteban, A., José, J.M. and Carlos, S.-N. (2018), "Solutions for Enhanced Commercial Logistics in Cities – A Case Study of Two Different Zones in Quito – Ecuador", Yoshizaki, H.T.Y., Velázquez Martínez, J.C. and Argueta, C.M. (Ed.) Supply Chain Management and Logistics in Latin America, Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 149-170. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-78756-803-720181010
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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