Application of job-shop scheduling for harbour operation optimisation

This paper presents an optimised approach to scheduling tugboats for an outsourced port company in Europe's second-largest seaport. Using allowed data from 2022, we developed a one-day operational scenario for harbour activities. By implementing an integer programming model with OR-Tools, tugboat operators can improve their scheduling processes, ensuring more efficient resource utilisation. We recommend adopting a mathematical model to address the job-shop scheduling problem, considering the critical factors relevant to Belgian harbour operations. A genetic algorithm was also employed as an alternative method to solve the issue under the specific conditions studied. The proposed model provides the port with a structured process to meet its operational needs. These methods demonstrate that tugboat scheduling decisions can be optimised efficiently and may serve as a reference for other ports and organisations facing similar operational challenges.