Warehouse layout optimization and a case study

This thesis study addresses the finished goods warehouse layout problem of a manufacturing company operating in the paper industry. In the current situation, the layout planning of roll shaped materials in the finished goods warehouse is carried out manually. The aim of this thesis is to ensure the efficient utilization of warehouse space. With the objective of improving space utilization, a Mixed-Integer Linear Programming (MILP) model has been developed. The proposed model aims to enhance the efficient use of vertical warehouse space by considering the physical properties of materials, safe stacking heights, material groups, and arrival sequences. The model is solved using the Python programming language and the Gurobi Optimizer. It is tested on a real-world dataset consisting of 50 roll-shaped materials. To evaluate the limits and performance of the developed mathematical model, 78 problem instances are examined and analyzed. The results demonstrate that the proposed mathematical model offers a new perspective by improving storage efficiency while satisfying physical and operational constraints. This thesis aims to contribute to the literature by presenting an applicable and customizable warehouse design approach, particularly for industries that handle roll-shaped materials.