A combined Mixed Integer Programming model of seaside operations arising in container ports

This paper puts forward an integrated optimisation model that combines three distinct problems, namely the Berth Allocation Problem, the Quay Crane Assignment Problem, and the Quay Crane Scheduling problem, which have to be solved to carry out these seaside operations in container ports. Each one of these problems is complex to solve in its own right. However, solving them individually leads almost surely to sub-optimal solutions. Hence the need to solve them in a combined form. The problem is formulated as a mixed-integer programming model with the objective being to minimise the tardiness of vessels. Experimental results show that relatively small instances of the proposed model can be solved exactly using CPLEX.