Investigation and design of parcel sorting systems in postal centres by simulation

Basic elements of the simulation modelling study of a discrete and stochastic system for parcel flow and sorting in postal centres are presented. The aim of the study was an investigation of the system functioning and its dependence on external and internal variables of the system, and the design of the system structure and parameters. The main characteristics of the system structure and operation, both with the simulation model concept description and validation results, are also presented. The results obtained in simulation experiments with the model of the parcel sorting system show the dependence of the relevant system functioning performances upon daily traffic of the parcels. The use of this simulation model for analysis and decision making in postal centres is also demonstrated.