Fleet schedule optimization

The cargo assignment function in TurboRouter is developed for designing optimal fleet schedules, i.e. to decide which vessels to assign the different cargoes to. The planner can do this by manually assigning the cargoes to the vessels or he can activate the optimization algorithm for fleet scheduling, or a combination of these two ways of planning.

TurboRouter will always show the planner an updated view of the assignment possibilities, represented by white cells in the cargo assignment function. By assigning a cargo to a given vessel, TurboRouter will immediately calculate the economic impact for the fleet and for the given vessel. In addition, if the given cargo assignment restricts the possibilities for assigning other cargoes to the particular vessel (for instance due to cargo laycan), it will be shown in the planning window.

The planner can also operate with a number of possible schedule scenarios in order to select the optimal one, see the figure below.

Experience shows us that by using the fleet schedule optimization function in TurboRouter, the planner is be able to improve fleet utilization. This may for instance result in more spot cargo liftings, which can have a huge impact on bottom line.

The optimization routine in TurboRouter can accommodate the following:

• Optimize with respect to financial result (net daily) or with respect to fleet capacity utilization
• Cargo time windows (laycan) both for loading and/or discharging
• Vessel capacities
• Compatibility between vessels and loading/discharging ports
• Compatibility between vessel equipment/certificates and products to be shipped
• Parcel cargoes or full shiploads
• Split cargoes (the cargoes can be divided in several cargoes to be shipped by several vessels)
• User-specified planning period
• Multiple products
• Combination of spot and contract cargoes
• Priorities on the cargoes
• Relet of cargoes
• Inclusion/exclusion of time charter vessels
• Sequencing constraints due to incompatible products in vessel tanks on consecutive voyages

The fleet schedule optimization function can also be used for more long-term planning such as for instance:

• Cargo contract evaluations
• Tonnage planning
• Fleet merger evaluations
• Budget planning