Modelling of Cross-Docking Terminal-Based Supply Chain Solutions in Industry 4.0 Era

An important part for the efficient operation of manufacturing and service companies is the development of modern supply chain solutions that ensures efficient, flexible and sustainable operations. This requires supply chain solutions that reduce the cost, energy and environmental impact of loading, transportation and storage processes. Cross-docking terminals and consignment contracts can provide an excellent solution to this problem in the era of Industry 4.0, as their application efficiency can be further enhanced by exploiting the benefits of cyber-physical systems. In this paper, the author proposes a new supply chain approach that enables an efficient solution by transforming traditional supply chain solutions into a cyber-physical supply chain and by using cross-docking facilities and consignment contracts. The author gives an overview of the results of the application of cross docking terminals in conventional supply chains. Then, a novel supply chain approach is presented that is capable of implementing a flexible, cost-effective material handling process by applying Industry 4.0 technologies to increase the efficiency of the entire supply chain. Case studies and optimization scenarios show that cross-docking facilities are efficient parts of global supply chains that can greatly increase the efficiency of complex production and logistics operations in cyber-physical manufacturing systems.