Loading pallets with non-identical items

This paper addresses what has been called the ‘Distributor's Pallet Packing Problem’, i.e. the problem of loading a pallet with non-homogeneous items. A new heuristic approach to this problem is described which aims to generate efficient loading arrangements which at the same time also provide a high degree of inherent stability. The results of experimental evaluations of the approach are presented. Also discussed are a series of possible modifications of the basic method, together with a detailed performance analysis of their relative merits. The paper concludes with suggestions for further work in this area.