Optimizing a Flexible Multi-Stage Logistics Network Model Using Imperialist Competitive Algorithm (ICA)

To be successful in today’s active business competition, enterprises need to design and build a productive and flexible logistics network. The flexible multistage logistic network (fMLN) problem is NP-hard. The previous papers were considering the problem as a single source logistic network problem while in real world we face a multi source logistic network problem. This paper, tried to find the minimum cost of fMLN using Imperialist competitive Algorithm (ICA) with considering a multi source flexible multistage logistics network. Additionally, all product amounts shipped from plants to customer are obtained. The best product delivery route for each customer considering the constraints fulfilled will be found.