The "JIT" in the field of logistics: study on the cross-docking scheduling

In the field of logistics, cross docking is called as the "JIT". And by means of cross-docking distribution, inventory and transportation costs can be reduced effectively and distribution efficiency can be improved. Cross-docking scheduling, as the core link of cross-docking distribution, is mainly used to arrange the order of trucks arriving and leaving the distribution center and assign their locations at the dock. The cross-docking scheduling is a complicated NP problem and its model establishment and solution are very difficult. In this paper, the research status of cross-dock scheduling problems domestic and foreign was reviewed systematically. Then, the evolution and optimization algorithms of the model for crossdocking scheduling were classified and summarized based on three types, i.e., dock assignment, cross-dock scheduling and cross-docking transport planning. At present, although some achievements have been made on crossing-docking scheduling problems, it is still need to be strengthened in terms of theoretical framework, integrated scheduling, dynamic scheduling and practical application.