A sustainable distribution design for multi-quality multiple-cold-chain products: An integrated inspection strategies approach

Cold-chain products are time-sensitive and perishable and pose the risk of failure if they are transported to a distant location. Thus, there is a need to analyze their quality during distribution so that the customers may receive optimal-quality products. To address this issue, this study integrates inspection strategies with the sustainable distribution system of multi-quality multiple-cold-chain products. A bi-objective model of cost and emission is proposed under the constraints of heterogeneous vehicle and time window. Furthermore, this study intends to address the following questions: Which inspection strategy helps to ensure the potency of delivered products, and what is the impact of quality differentiation on the value of objective functions? A set of meta-heuristics is used for implementing the model using a rich panel of experiments. The results reveal that the quality conditions of different products impact the solutions of cost and emissions. Moreover, the conformity strategy is more viable, as it results in less cost and ensures that the quantity of delivered products meets the level of demand. Finally, the study provides implications for managers and practitioners to develop a sustainable distribution system to maintain the quality of cold-chain products.