Reverse Logistics Network Design Using a Hybrid Genetic Algorithm and Simulated Annealing Methodology

Reverse logistics network design (RLND) effectiveness has an important impact on the effectiveness of the whole supply network coordination. Considering that, in this study, the RLND problem is investigated and a hybrid genetic algorithms and simulated annealing (HGASA) methodology is proposed. This problem is applied to a preceding study which utilized genetic algorithms (GA) for the optimization. HGASA and GA results are tested with Wilcoxon rank-sum test for hundred runs and the results prove the difference between two approaches. Additionally, the averages and the standard deviations support that, the HGASA algorithm increases the probability of obtaining better solutions.