Review of Vehicle Routing Problems Solving Software

Abstract

Introduction: In a context of global competition and technological advances, logistics has become very relevant for the proper functioning of companies, as this can represent up to 25% of the cost of goods. In this sense, vehicle routing problem solving (VRP) software is an opportunity to improve the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Argentina. In recent years, the supply of VRPs has increased significantly, although they present variants that are - a priori - difficult to discern.

Objective: To identify, characterise and compare VRP resolution software, recognising among them the most recommendable in terms of work tools and feasible to apply in SMEs, with the aim of generating a contribution to the strengthening of their distribution systems.

Methodology: The following question is defined: Which of the routing software studied and analysed are the most convenient and recommendable for small and medium-sized enterprises? Why? For the information search, the platforms Scopus, ResearchGate, GoogleAcademic, and Google were consulted. Based on a prior criteria definition, the selected software are compared and the question is answered.

Results: From the results obtained in the literature search, a number of criteria were used to select and characterise, compare and analyse the software. The six selected software were SimpliRoute, RouteXL, RoutificMain, OptimoRoute, VRP Spreadsheet Solver and ArcGIS Online.

Conclusions: The software considered most suitable are VRP Spreadsheet Solver, SimpliRoute and OptimoRoute due to their easy accessibility and ability to cover numerous decision variables. However, SimpliRoute and OptimoRoute have the disadvantage of not being free.