applying cross-docking operations in logistics network design: analysis and literature review

in today’s competitive word, it is so important to offer a new way in the cycle of production and supply by which the maximum efficiency will be achieved. the problem of applying cross-docking operations in logistics and supply chain network design, as a new and applicable approach, has attracted much attention in both academic and industrial areas. the matter making this strategy be highly welcomed, is the cross-docking role in shortening transportation cycle, controlling the shipment costs and on-time delivery of orders causing value in different aspects and improved service level. in this review paper, we first present a clear definition about cross-docking operations and then all the problems involving in the related field are classified and reviewed.