Methodology to estimate logistics costs for vertically transported prefabricated wall panels

When transporting prefabricated exterior panels vertically, shipping frame types and site conditions affect panel logistics. Thus, it is crucial that project participants estimate the logistics costs considering these factors, which vary by projects, to select the most economic option rapidly and consistently for a specific project in addition to three important objectives of panel logistics (i.e. number of trailers, reshuffling effort, and panel stability). In this study, the authors developed a methodology to generate loading plans for different types of shipping frames and site conditions using both first fit and next fit algorithms and evaluate the cost-related items for the loading plans considering project conditions. To demonstrate the usefulness of the methodology, the authors conducted a case study and compared the logistics costs for three different frame options considering site conditions. The results show that the methodology enables project participants to identify the advantages and disadvantages of different frame options based on given site conditions, which can guide project participants to make informed decisions about the preferred frame option.