Optimising courier routes in central city areas

Determining efficient routes for couriers in central city areas is becoming more challenging due to growing levels of congestion. New technologies allow on-street loading zones to be booked to reduce waiting times and circulation. Couriers when planning deliveries need to consider both driving and walking routes to optimise their activities. A two-layer optimisation model has been developed for determining the best routes for minimising operating and environmental costs. A genetic algorithm is proposed to find (near-)optimal solutions. The output can provide guidance for couriers as well as planners who are involved in determining duration limits at loading zones.