Comprehensive Application of Logistics Cost Optimization Models for the Delivery of Goods by Road

The current society’s development is the intensive growth of human needs. That leads to an increase in production volumes. That requires an appropriate level of product transportation. Currently, there are various kinds, including automobile, railway, water, and air transport. According to the International Maritime Organization, maritime transport is the undisputed leader in international transportation; however, on land, road freight transportation surpasses other types in demand. That is due to the mobility of cars and the availability of a well-developed road infrastructure, which allows cargo to be delivered directly from the seller to the customer. In this regard, there is a need to plan routes for vehicles, solve transport tasks, and ensure the rational use of the carrying capacity of means of transport. When organizing cargo transportation, tasks include building optimal routes, minimizing transportation costs, and avoiding the underutilization of the truck. Continuous improvement of cargo delivery is a serious strategic objective of competing transport companies. It is necessary to regulate the costs of the services provided. Cost management and optimization are serious tools in organizing a transport company, which contribute to increasing its efficiency. That is due to the relevance of the research topic. The article discusses the theoretical and methodological aspects of cost optimization in transport companies, presents some optimization models, and justifies their application. Practice shows that these models can be applied to the activities of cargo carriers to significantly reduce unproductive costs and ensure the achievement of strategic goals, such as achieving market leadership positions and increasing competitiveness.