Logistics Optimization Applied to Redesign Operations Involving Merchandise Location, Employee Ergonomics and Distribution Network

The growing demand for bottled beverages has led to the search for optimal configurations that represent the lowest costs. Using crossdocking techniques reduces storage costs, these costs being the main ones in the logistics of distribution of products to the consumer. However, it is vitally important to consider the ergonomics of the workers who are subjected to the loading and unloading of products to meet the demands. Various ailments have been reported to the authorities, and it is imperative to address them for decision making. Likewise, the best arrangement of the products within these fast warehouses is associated with the relationship between the number of times a worker travels to pick up the product from the place where it is located to the loading area and the distance. In this work, the distribution from the production plants and the crossdocking to the distribution centers are proposed jointly and in each distribution center the best arrangement of the products is determined, as well as the ergonomics of those involved, considering the best scheme that represents the lowest cost. The results show the best distribution of products as well as the crossdocking that must be installed to meet the demands of the distribution centers.