Two-Stage Optimization Model of Agricultural Product Distribution in Remote Rural Areas

Due to the lack of systematically optimized logistics networks in many remote rural areas, the online sales of agricultural products in these areas have the disadvantages of high cost, high damage and slow speed. To address these logistic problems, this paper proposes a two-stage layout optimization model of agricultural product joint distribution centres based on the geographical features of remote rural areas. The number and location of distribution centres are selected in two stages to optimize the logistics network. Chengkou County, located in Chongqing city, China, has been selected as the study area. In the first stage, AP clustering is carried out using the distance between the logistics nodes of villages and towns, and the transit station of the source of agricultural products is obtained using the correlation between the nodes, which are regarded as alternative locations for the second-level logistics nodes. In the second stage, a joint distribution centre optimization model with the lowest cost is constructed. A fruit fly optimization algorithm is used to select the optimal locations from the alternative locations as the second-level logistics nodes and obtain the specific delivery path. Optimizing the logistics network of remote rural areas can reduce the logistics costs of agricultural products in these areas, promote online sales of agricultural products, and provide the government and logistics companies with theoretical references to open up new markets in remote areas.