A hybrid RFID case-based system for handling air cargo storage location assignment operations in distribution centers

Logistics service providers (LSPs) often face the challenge of uncertainty in air import operations. Due to the limited capacity of aircraft, the problem of cargo offload occurs frequently. Without prior notice, cargoes are delivered in separate flights, which increase handling complexity. On the other hand, due to the short transit time between flights, the shipper at the origin does not have sufficient time to inform the LSPs the details of cargo being loaded before its arrival. This results in a lack of time for LSPs to assign storage location for the arrived cargo at the distribution center (DC). Hence, the order picking process becomes inefficient and time-consuming, which leads to trucks idling in the docking area waiting for the consolidated goods. The problems become more obvious when handling electronic components and high tech products. In this study, a hybrid RFID case-based decision support system, integrating RFID and case-based reasoning technologies, is proposed for handling air cargo storage location assignment operations in distribution centers. After pilot study of the proposed system in a third-party LSP, the order-picking efficiency is improved while the truck idling time at the docking area is reduced significantly.