Route Optimization for Milk Transportation through Simulated Annealing

Abstract

Efficiency in milk collection and distribution plays a fundamental role in the dairy industry. This work aims to optimize the routes involving up to ten trucks for collecting milk from fifty dairy farms and delivering it to a processing plant. To address this complex problem, the metaheuristic algorithm known as Simulated Annealing is applied. The solution found improves the process
efficiency in terms of distance traveled and tank capacity occupied. Additionally, it contributes to reducing the environmental impact through carbon emissions, eliminating the need for two trucks. To analyze the best solution found, the results are compared with an empirical solution based on the methodology used in the local industries.