A container-based model for export container retrieval sequences in a yard block

This study addresses the retrieval problem to export containers stored in a seaport yard block and waiting for loading up. The previous models construct models from two dimensions without considering container stacks. The purpose of this paper is to propose an optimization model that minimizes the duration of crane moving and container handling subject to the required container category of each loading sequence. Because this container-based model takes into account the stacks of the yard block, its decision can avoid possible reshuffles caused by an inappropriate arrangement of retrieval sequences. This paper proposes a tabu search algorithm for solution and presents test results of some practical cases.