Abstract. In this paper we establish a consistent encoding of freight train classification methods. This encoding scheme presents a powerful tool for efficient presentation and analysis of classification methods, which we successfully apply to illustrate the most relevant historic results from a more theoretical point of view. We analyze their performance precisely and develop new classification methods making use of the inherent optimality condition of the encoding. We conclude with deriving optimal algorithms and complexity results for restricted real-world settings.

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Multi-group trains have potential to take a substantial segment in realizing wagonload services. Multi-group train formation is a complex marshalling procedure which composes a train by sorting wagons according to their destinations. The order of wagons corresponds to the disposition of destinations on the train route. The determination of rational sorting schedules should be based on a comprehensive approach addressing different quantitative and qualitative indicators which are conflicting and uncertain. In order to address these conditions, we proposed a new approach for fuzzy multi-criteria evaluation of simultaneous train formation methods. In this paper we evaluate simultaneous train formation methods and provide recommendations for the rational application of elementary, triangular and geometric sorting schedules regarding different scales of sorting task complexity.