Patent ID: 8364607
Filing Date: 2013-01-29
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
1. A system for modeling distribution flow for a set of packages within a carrier's shipping network, the system comprising memory and at least one computer processor, the at least one computer processor configured for: retrieving a current distribution flow model for simulating the transportation flow of a set of packages within a carrier's shipping network from a current distribution hub to a first geographical area, based at least in part on a consignor's average package volume for the first geographical area for a specific time period, the current distribution flow model indicating at least: (1) the current distribution hub to which the set of packages are to be transported from an origin and (2) a current number of days expected for transporting the set of packages from the origin to the first geographical area via the current distribution hub; generating an alternative distribution flow model for simulating the transportation flow of the set of packages within the carrier's shipping network from an alternative distribution hub to the first geographical area, the alternative distribution flow model indicating at least: (1) the alternative distribution hub to which the set of packages may be transported from the origin and (2) an alternative number of days expected for transporting the set of packages from the origin to the first geographical area via the alternative distribution hub, wherein the alternative distribution hub is located remotely from the current distribution hub; comparing the current distribution flow model and the alternative distribution flow model for the set of packages within the carrier's shipping network to determine which model indicates a lesser number of days expected to transport the set of packages from the origin to the first geographical area; and identifying at least one of the models as an optimal distribution flow model associated with the first geographical area based on which model indicates the lesser number of days expected to transport the set of packages from the origin to the first geographical area.