Optimization field analysis in container storage yards using simulation

The proper operation of a container storage yard, which generally can be expected to locate anywhere except sea port, depends on the amount of operation and way of using equipment. Accordingly for improving the operation, paying attention to maximum usage of yard area by considering the equipment operational constraints, minimizing the number of loading and unloading in yard by choosing the proper arrangement strategy, selecting the most proper material handling equipment according to yard area and the appropriate arrangement strategy and also the best displacing routes is necessary in designing and operation steps. The variation of factors and the complexity between them, prevents from finding the optimized solution. Use of simulation software make it easy to solve the problem. This paper tries to explain the importance of improvement opportunities in container storage yard by classifying the different aspects of optimization problem and roles of simulation for solving these problems.