Route optimization for paper distribution

Sweco has carried out a project commissioned by the Swedish newspapers Aftonbladet and Expressen, where the aim has been to streamline their paper distribution. By using the routing engine LogixIE, costs could be reduced significantly. The project also resulted in a better documentation, quality of key knowledge and reduction of carbon dioxide emissions.

The system is integrated with the retailers’ business systems and is capable of comparing different routes and plans in order to optimize for the user.

• 24% fewer cars were needed in the distribution process
• Costs were cut for both recruitment of new drivers as costs for fuel and car services etc
• Earlier paper maps and charts were changed to a well-documented Web service
• A visual map interface based on MapPoint was provided
• Key knowledge of best routes became documented in the system instead of in a few key planners’ heads
• The system saved annually 53 200 kg of CO2 emissions (equivalent to the emissions from 30 households)

For more information contact Johan Tornberg,