More than a 100 trucks per day load and unload the chemicals to or from the 400 tanks at the storage facilities at the three terminals (Botlek, Chemiehaven and TTR) in Rotterdam. To solve the daily puzzle of designating the right slot to each road carrier, reliable data is essential.

The planning process of designating slots is complex and very dynamic. More than two third of the bookings are made only one day in advance. Furthermore, last-minute order changes, multiple order rules, blend orders and various loading and terminal restrictions have to be taken into account.