A multi-scenario model for empty container repositioning under uncertain demand

Abstract

This paper investigates the maritime repositioning of empty containers under uncertain demand. In order to consider data uncertainty, the problem is addressed by a stochastic programming approach, in which different scenarios are included in a multi-scenario optimization model and linked by non-anticipativity conditions. Numerical experiments show the benefits of multi-scenario solutions with respect to deterministic approaches, which consider only a single point forecast for each uncertain parameter.