Joint optimization of parcel delivery periodic location-routing and prepositioning disaster response facilities

The rapid growth of e-commerce has contributed to the booming distribution demand in rural areas but has also exposed the shortcomings of the lack of terminal facilities. The village-level pickup points (VPPs) and frequency of delivery represent among the most popular solution. In the plateau and mountainous areas where natural disasters are frequent, VPPs have been further advocated should undertake the emergency reserve and rescue function. However, optimally deploying facilities with peacetime and emergency demands remains challenging because of unique demand characteristics. This study presents a joint optimization model to determine the optimal parcel delivery periodic location-routing and prepositioned disaster response facilities location to fill the gap. The model considers the flexible choice of parcel delivery dates and the severity of natural disasters, integrates the objectives of delivery service economy (minimizing cost) and emergency response timeliness (minimizing maximum weighted travel risk). The developed model was applied to an empirical study of a rural township in Qingchuan county, Sichuan, which aimed to demonstrate its effectiveness and replicability. This study will help the plateau and mountainous public sector make informed decisions in assisting parcel delivery network design and rescue resource deployment.