Freight transport assures a vital link between suppliers and customers and it represents a major source of employment. Multi-echelon distribution is one of the most common strategies in this field. This paper presents the main concepts of multi-echelon distribution with cross-docking through a multidisciplinary analysis that includes an optimization study and an interview-based analysis. The optimization analysis uses both a geographic approach based on the concept of accessibility and a scenario simulation analysis for collaborative freight transportation. The interview-based analysis includes a conceptual framework for logistics and transport pooling systems and a simulation method for strategic planning optimization.
