Equipment/Container Optimization

OTMFAQ participants,

I have following issue which we are trying to resolve. On daily basis we create multiple multistop shipments. When user selects group of order release and plan through Bulk Planning process, the results are not as satisfactory as required in respect to equipment utilization. I understand bulk planning is very vast area where multiple parameters and setup can impact the outcome. However, we are specifically looking at container/equipment optimization. When bulk plan provides planned shipment majority of TL shipments are only 60 to 65% full out of it�s volume capacity (we max out volume before weight due to type of product). Also user are able to merge shipment and achieve desired utilization, it's time consuming though.

I have noticed following things:

1. Container optimization logic config is set to default what comes with the product. And most setup aligns with our objectives.
2. Also I notice within that logic configuration � Maximize Container Utilization is set to true along with Minimize Number of Container is also ture
3. Also default is to use Quick Packing Algorithm - may be we can start testing with different algorithms or combinations based on help documentation.
4. We do not use 3D Load config or THU or ERU. We only have one TL equipment.

My question is has anybody came across such scenarios and is there any specific parameter or group of parameter which guides Bulk Planning process to fill up existing Equipment to it�s capacity before generating more shipments.

Let say equipment capacity is 2000 CUFT, the goal it to build shipment with at least 1900 CUFT or if possible upto 2000 cuft TL shipments. I do understand that rates play a major factor as well, but hoping to attach problem from different angle first.

I was planning to start looking at Container Optimization Algorithm parameters as there are many possible options but need to try them individually as well as in combination.

Any pointers would be much appreciated.