Optimal Deployment of Container Weighing Equipment: Models and Properties

Container weighing is crucial to the safety of the shipping system and has garnered significant attention in the maritime industry. This research develops a container weighing optimization model and validates several propositions derived from this model. Then, a case study is conducted on ports along the Yangtze River, and the sensitivity analysis of the model is provided. We report the following findings. First, the model can be solved efficiently for large-scale optimization problems. Second, as the number of weighing machines increases, the container weighing mode changes—from selectively weighing containers at their origin ports, then weighing containers at their transshipment ports or destination ports, to all of the containers weighed at their origin ports. Third, in order to improve the safety benefits of weighing containers, port authorities can increase the weighing capacity of weighing machines. The research provides theoretical guidance for shipping system managers to design container weighing plans that enhance maritime safety.