Fairness in online vehicle-cargo matching: An intuitionistic fuzzy set theory and tripartite evolutionary game approach

This paper explores the concept of fairness and equitable matching in an on-line vehicle-cargo matching setting, addressing the varying degrees of satisfaction experienced by shippers and carriers. Relevant indicators for shippers and carriers in the on-line matching process are categorized as attributes, expectations, and reliability, which are subsequent quantified to form satisfaction indicators. Employing the intuitionistic fuzzy set theory, we devise a transformed vehicle-cargo matching optimization model by combining the fuzzy set’s membership, non-membership, and uncertainty information. Through an adaptive interactive algorithm, the matching scheme with fairness concerns is solved using CPLEX. The effectiveness of the proposed matching mechanism in securing high levels of satisfaction is established by comparison with three benchmark methods. To further investigate the impact of considering fairness in vehicle-cargo matching, a shipper-carrier-platform tripartite evolutionary game framework is developed under the waiting response time cost (WRTC) sharing mechanism. Simulation results show that with fairness concerns in vehicle-cargo matching, all stakeholders are better off: The platform achieves positive revenue growth, and shippers and carriers receive positive subsidy. This study offers both theoretical insights and practical guidance for the long-term and stable operation of the on-line freight stowage industry.