Diseño de un modelo logístico de distribución urbana de mercancías para el sector de paquetería de Galápagos, Santa Cruz

Abstract

Abstract: This research aimed to design an urban logistics model for the parcel delivery sector in Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos, focused on improving operational efficiency and reducing the impacts associated with urban mobility. The study employed a quantitative, descriptive, and applied approach, utilizing interviews with logistics stakeholders, direct observation, document review, and route simulations based on the Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP). The diagnostic phase revealed limitations such as narrow streets, a lack of suitable loading and unloading zones, a concentration of deliveries in commercial, tourist, and residential areas, and dependence on the continental-insular multimodal system. The simulation modeled both a current scenario and an optimized scenario, considering a main warehouse, four logistics zones, three vehicles, and an estimated demand of 180 packages. The findings showed that the current scenario involved a total distance of 6.16 km, while the optimized scenario, using the VRP, reduced the distance to 4.26 km, representing a reduction of 1.89 km and a 30.74% improvement. Therefore, it can be said that the proposed model allows for improved route planning, better utilization of vehicle capacity, and a reduction in unnecessary trips. It is also recommended to implement an urban distribution center, designated loading and unloading zones, and operational guidelines that promote more efficient and sustainable distribution.