Modeling for Cost Minimization Applied to the Allocation of Vehicles in Road Transport Companies

This research presents an Integer Linear Programming (ILP) model for optimising the dynamic allocation of resources in European road transport companies. The main focus is improving operational efficiency and minimising various costs, such as maintenance, fuel, salaries, tolls, insurance, delays, and environmental impacts, within the European regulatory context, particularly Portuguese Regulation Reg. (EC) No. 561/2006. The model incorporates specific constraints on driving time limits, rest requirements, and interactions between departments and vehicles. The results indicate a reduction in operational costs and an improvement in logistic efficiency. Implementing the model using LINGO software demonstrated the ability to adapt to changes in demand and regulations, maintaining compliance and promoting safety. In addition, a tool was developed to facilitate sensitivity analysis and strategic decision-making, allowing for flexible adjustments to changes in demand or operational conditions. The objective is to contribute to logistic optimisation and provide a practical and robust tool for transportation sector managers. The importance of technological innovation in logistics operations management and addressing challenges in complex transportation environments is highlighted. The insights generated by the model have the potential to positively influence logistic management practices, emphasising a more strategic and sustainable approach in the road transport sector.