Application of humanitarian last mile distribution model

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend a routing model so that it may be applied to a real case study of material deliveries involved in a development operation, typical of regular humanitarian logistics, and to explore the impact of variations in available logistic assets.

Design/methodology/approach

The introduced model is a conceptual evolution of the study recently presented. It concerns the resource allocation and vehicle routing decisions in the well-known Haitian case. Different scenarios are analyzed and a sensitivity analysis is provided. Constraints related to transportation resources in a complex environment, transportation vehicle capacities, and delivery time restrictions are here considered.

Findings

This research shows how the logistic assets characteristics and their availability affect the distribution system performances, in terms of total distribution cost and shortages.

Originality/value

The present work explores the last mile distribution problem by providing a case study to assist decision makers in making effective and efficient distribution across the last mile. The research focusses upon the distribution systems management coupled with material distribution modalities.

Citation

Battini, D., Peretti, U., Persona, A. and Sgarbossa, F. (2014), "Application of humanitarian last mile distribution model", Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Vol. 4 No. 1, pp. 131-148. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHLSCM-01-2013-0001