Journal Description
Logistics
Logistics
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal of logistics and supply chain management published quarterly online by MDPI. The first issue has been released in December 2017.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), RePEc, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 29.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 8.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Operations Research and Management Science) / CiteScore - Q1 (Management Information Systems)
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.6 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.7 (2023)
Latest Articles
Does Environmental Performance Make Any Difference in the Relationship between Green Supply Chain Management and Hotel Competitiveness?
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030070 (registering DOI) - 11 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: This research examines the direct influence of green supply chain management (GSCM) on hotel competitiveness and the indirect impact through environmental performance (EP). The competition between enterprises in today’s changing marketplace has significantly heightened. Therefore, identifying the factors that contribute to an
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Background: This research examines the direct influence of green supply chain management (GSCM) on hotel competitiveness and the indirect impact through environmental performance (EP). The competition between enterprises in today’s changing marketplace has significantly heightened. Therefore, identifying the factors that contribute to an enterprises’ competitiveness has become more essential than it was previously. Methods: We adopted a pre-tested scale drawn from previous related studies and we were able to collect 430 forms from managers and department heads in Saudi Arabian hotels. Results: The study findings of the structural model by PLS-SEM revealed that environmental and economic GSCM had a considerable beneficial influence on hotel competitiveness. However, the social aspect of GSCM failed to have an extensive effect on hotel competitiveness. All three dimensions of GSCM have a substantial indirect influence on hotel competitiveness via EP. Conclusion: The study developed a complete model that integrates the elements of GSCM with EP and hotel competitiveness. The study presents numerous implications for hoteliers and academics.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)
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Open AccessReview
Comprehensive Review of Robotized Freight Packing
by
German Pantoja-Benavides, Daniel Giraldo, Ana Montes, Andrea García, Carlos Rodríguez, César Marín and David Álvarez-Martínez
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030069 - 8 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: This review addresses the emerging field of automated packing cells, which lies at the intersection of robotics and packing problems. Integrating these two fields is critical for optimizing logistics and e-commerce operations. The current literature focuses on packing problems or specific
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Background: This review addresses the emerging field of automated packing cells, which lies at the intersection of robotics and packing problems. Integrating these two fields is critical for optimizing logistics and e-commerce operations. The current literature focuses on packing problems or specific robotic applications without addressing their integration. Methods: To bridge this gap, we conducted a comprehensive review of 46 relevant studies, analyzing various dimensions, including the components of robotic packing cells, the types of packing problems, the solution approaches, and performance comparisons. Results: Our review reveals a significant trend towards addressing online packing problems, which reflects the dynamic nature of logistics operations where item information is often incomplete. We also identify several research gaps, such as the need for standardized terminologies, comprehensive methodologies, and the consideration of real-world constraints in robotic algorithms. Conclusions: This review uniquely integrates insights from robotics and packing problems, providing a structured framework for future research. It highlights the importance of considering practical robotic constraints. It proposes a research structure that enhances the reproducibility and comparability of results in real-world scenarios. By doing so, we aim to guide future research efforts and facilitate the development of more robust and practical automated packing systems.
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(This article belongs to the Topic New Technological Solutions, Research Methods, Simulation and Analytical Models That Support the Development of Modern Transport Systems)
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Towards Green Transportation Practices Using a Buyer/Supplier Perspective: A Systematic Literature Review
by
Gisèle Mendy Bilek, Richard Calvi, Daniel Erhel and Youcef Mechouar
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030068 - 5 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: The role of individual supply chain actors in carbon emissions reduction (CER) is well-documented. However, it is critical to identify the conditions required to develop a systemic approach for encouraging these actors to share their visions and align their environmental strategy
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Background: The role of individual supply chain actors in carbon emissions reduction (CER) is well-documented. However, it is critical to identify the conditions required to develop a systemic approach for encouraging these actors to share their visions and align their environmental strategy for CER. This study aims to identify the determinants (motivations, pressures, and incentives) and modalities (practices conducting greening transportation from shippers and logistics service providers (LSP) point of view) necessary for a better environmental alignment between actors for a CER initiative. Methods: We base our argument on a systemic literature review that points out 28 articles written in the period between 2010 and 2023 and fully aligned with the scope of our analysis. Results: The originality of our approach is that we focus on the interplay between shippers and LSPs to better understand the dynamics of green transportation practices. Conclusions: This paper invites researchers to adopt a dyadic approach to the phenomenon in order to better understand how the CER willingness is effectively diffused in the business interactions of shippers and LSP.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sustainability and Reverse Logistics)
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Lean and Agile Supply Strategies in Distribution Centres to Deliver Value-Added Services (VAS)
by
Eduard Klundt, Neil Towers and Kamal Bechkoum
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030067 - 3 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: This paper examines how logistics mangers increase performance by incorporating VAS in their distribution centres in the context of different natures of customer demand. The study is underpinned by the principles of lean and agile strategies as two key concepts that can
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Background: This paper examines how logistics mangers increase performance by incorporating VAS in their distribution centres in the context of different natures of customer demand. The study is underpinned by the principles of lean and agile strategies as two key concepts that can be applied to respond to different customer expectations. Methods: Based on the phenomenological interpretivist paradigm, an empirical multiple-case study was conducted in German distribution centres operated by six companies. The empirical data were collected through semi-structured interviews, built on the triangulation of sources. Open, axial, and selective coding were employed to analyse data collected through eighteen in-depth interviews with managers from the distribution centres. Results: The findings indicated that the construct of customer demand forms different benefits that the logistics service providers can achieve through VAS. Simultaneously, various customer demands on VAS requires the distribution centres to focus on developing different operational capabilities to gain superior performance. Conclusions: Based on the research findings, a conceptual model was created. This model can support logistics service providers in improving company performance through effectively managing VAS in their distribution centres. The high dynamic VAS customer demand can bring more financial and non-financial benefits but needs higher flexibility in the warehouse operation system. Stable and predictable VAS, in turn, require a higher degree of standardisation.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Building Resilient Reverse Supply Chains: Strategies, Technologies, and Sustainable Practices)
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Simulation-Based Assessment of Hyperconnected Megacity Parcel Logistics
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Sara Kaboudvand and Benoit Montreuil
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030066 - 2 Jul 2024
Abstract
Background: The concept of Hyperconnected Megacity Parcel Logistics (HMPL) was introduced in 2018 and aims to enhance the efficiency, responsiveness, resilience, and sustainability of parcel movements in megacities. However, evaluating such fundamental solutions presents challenges and requires a comprehensive understanding of all stakeholders
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Background: The concept of Hyperconnected Megacity Parcel Logistics (HMPL) was introduced in 2018 and aims to enhance the efficiency, responsiveness, resilience, and sustainability of parcel movements in megacities. However, evaluating such fundamental solutions presents challenges and requires a comprehensive understanding of all stakeholders and decisions involved. Methods: This study introduces a discrete-event agent-based simulation platform that encompasses critical stakeholders and addresses various levels of decision-making. This platform provides an opportunity to evaluate key decisions within an HMPL structure. Results: To demonstrate the capability of the simulator, we assess the impact of package routing and consolidation strategies facilitated by HMPL compared to traditional practices. Preliminary findings suggest that increased interconnection among nodes in HMPL reduces transit times, thereby enabling tighter customer delivery services. However, examining different consolidation heuristics reveals potential trade-offs between handling and shipping costs under fixed shipment schedules, prompting further investigation into dynamic shipment services. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that the benefits of innovative approaches in a complex environment, such as parcel logistics, cannot be evaluated in isolation from other decisions. Accurate assessment of the ultimate outcomes and underlying trade-offs requires multi-faceted models that incorporate all key variables.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Criteria Decision-Making and Its Application in Sustainable Smart Logistics)
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An Integrated Event-Driven Real-Time Tactical–Operational Optimization Framework for Smart Port Operations Planning
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Danilo Abril, Carlos D. Paternina-Arboleda and Jesus Velasquez-Bermudez
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030065 - 30 Jun 2024
Abstract
The ongoing issues in global supply chain disruptions have raised many concerns of port productivity, among which port congestion is a key issue. This article implements an integrated tactical–operational optimization framework which raises the capabilities of port information systems to deliver smarter decision-making
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The ongoing issues in global supply chain disruptions have raised many concerns of port productivity, among which port congestion is a key issue. This article implements an integrated tactical–operational optimization framework which raises the capabilities of port information systems to deliver smarter decision-making processes in ports through a decision support system. To this end, we developed a library of multiple smart models for the optimization of port operations, independently engaged in parallel but mathematically coordinated to achieve autonomous real-time distributed optimization, using a novel event-driven structure to enable future implementations using digital twins. The framework was tested to benchmark different commercial solvers on several real instances for the port under study. The results show a strong improvement in port operational planning.
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Open AccessArticle
Zero-Emission Heavy-Duty, Long-Haul Trucking: Obstacles and Opportunities for Logistics in North America
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Paul D. Larson, Robert V. Parsons and Deepika Kalluri
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030064 - 27 Jun 2024
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Background: Pressure is growing in North America for heavy-duty, long-haul trucking to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, ultimately to zero. With freight volumes rising, improvement depends on zero-emissions technologies, e.g., battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). However, emissions
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Background: Pressure is growing in North America for heavy-duty, long-haul trucking to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, ultimately to zero. With freight volumes rising, improvement depends on zero-emissions technologies, e.g., battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). However, emissions reductions are constrained by technological and commercial realities. BEVs and FCEVs are expensive. Further, BEVs depend on existing electricity grids and FCEVs rely on steam–methane reforming (SMR) or electrolysis using existing grids to produce hydrogen. Methods: This study assembles publicly available data from reputable sources to estimate breakeven vehicle purchase prices under various conditions to match conventional (diesel) truck prices. It also estimates GHG emissions reductions. Results: BEVs face numerous obstacles, including (1) limited range; (2) heavy batteries and reduced cargo capacity; (3) long recharging time; and (4) uncertain hours-of-service (HOS) implications. On the other hand, FCEVs face two primary obstacles: (1) cost and availability of hydrogen and (2) cost of fuel cells. Conclusions: In estimating emissions reductions and economic feasibility of BEVs and FCEVs versus diesel trucks, the primary contributions of this study involve its consideration of vehicle prices, carbon taxes, and electricity grid capacity constraints and demand fees. As electricity grids reduce their emissions intensity, grid congestion and capacity constraints, opportunities arise for BEVs. On the other hand, rising electricity demand fees benefit FCEVs, with SMR-produced hydrogen a logical starting point. Further, carbon taxation appears to be less important than other factors in the transition to zero-emission trucking.
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Open AccessReview
Analysis of Supply Chain Response Frameworks: A Literature Review
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Raúl Antonio Díaz Pacheco and Ernest Benedito
Logistics 2024, 8(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8030063 - 25 Jun 2024
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Background: Various supply chain response frameworks (SCRFs) have been proposed in the supply chain (SC) literature, but there is no in-depth analysis. This study analyzes the applicability of SCRFs in scenarios that require SC responses by examining the frameworks’ design and use
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Background: Various supply chain response frameworks (SCRFs) have been proposed in the supply chain (SC) literature, but there is no in-depth analysis. This study analyzes the applicability of SCRFs in scenarios that require SC responses by examining the frameworks’ design and use in response situations. Methods: A qualitative analysis of 38 studies revealed weaknesses in SCRFs, which include the entity proposing the framework, the stimulus being responded to, the adaptation of activities to the stimulus that is responded to, objectives, and response evaluation criteria. Results: The analysis reveals that while these frameworks have been designed for specific situations involving single SC processes, they demonstrate weaknesses by failing to meet two requirements: (1) the stimulus being responded to is different from changes in demand, and (2) the response is generated by a process distinct from manufacturing. Conclusions: Further, SCRF research that incorporates these weaknesses will promote the fragmented development of the SCR concept. Conversely, a robust SCRF can be successfully utilized in various SCRs, facilitating the comparison and evaluation of responses of different SCs to the same stimulus.
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Optimal Strategy of Unreliable Flexible Production System Using Information System
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Sadok Rezig, Sadok Turki, Ayoub Chakroun and Nidhal Rezg
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020062 - 17 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Optimization approaches and a models can be applied for critical production systems that experience equipment failure, repair delays and product quality control in order to maximize the total profit. We can cite, as an example, flexible manufacturing systems. Methods: Our
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Background: Optimization approaches and a models can be applied for critical production systems that experience equipment failure, repair delays and product quality control in order to maximize the total profit. We can cite, as an example, flexible manufacturing systems. Methods: Our methodology involves developing a decision model integrated with an information system to coordinate various system operations, ensuring timely response to customer requests. The module of the information system is provided to optimally manage the production flow and parts ordering according to machine availability. The objective is to determine the optimal order thresholds of part batches that maximize the total profit. Results: Numerical results are provided to analyze the influence of system reliability and uncertainty on decision variables, offering insights into the system’s performance and robustness. By using our method, the advancement of the flexible production systems is carried out by addressing key operational challenges and optimizing production processes for enhanced efficiency and profitability. Conclusions: To achieve this, an optimization algorithm is employed to identify optimal solutions that enhance profitability.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optimizations and Operations Management of Modern Logistic Systems and Supply Chains)
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Performance Analysis of Automated Parcel Lockers in Urban Delivery: Combined Agent-Based–Monte Carlo Simulation Approach
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Eugen Rosca, Florin Rusca, Mircea Augustin Rosca and Aura Rusca
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020061 - 14 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: The habitat structure, the environmental impact, the market acceptance, the changes in consumers’ preferences, and the pandemic urged for innovative solutions in urban last-mile delivery. Parcel lockers are among the most preferred solutions by customers due to their home proximity, time
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Background: The habitat structure, the environmental impact, the market acceptance, the changes in consumers’ preferences, and the pandemic urged for innovative solutions in urban last-mile delivery. Parcel lockers are among the most preferred solutions by customers due to their home proximity, time availability, and cost efficiency. Methods: This paper introduces an agent-based model (ABM) and a Monte Carlo simulation program to analyze in detail the activity of parcel locker points. The ABM describes the behavior of the agents (customers, parcels, lockers, delivery agents). The simulation is realized using ARENA 12 software. Two scenarios are created based on the number of daily delivery shifts; for each scenario, 300 simulation experiments with various input data are conducted. Results: Three measures of performance (MOPs) are selected to assess the system activity: the number of daily delivered parcels, the delivery time of an order, and the daily delayed orders. The simulation outputs reveal significant predictors of MOPs and disclose moments when actions need to be taken to increase system capacity or change customer behavior. Conclusions: The versatility of the simulation model in terms of input variables makes it a useful decision support tool for planning by highlighting quantitative assessments, organizing delivery activity, along with influences due to customer behavior changes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Criteria Decision-Making and Its Application in Sustainable Smart Logistics)
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Humanitarian Logistics Prioritization Models: A Systematic Literature Review
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María Fernanda Carnero Quispe, Amanda Silveira Couto, Irineu de Brito Junior, Luiza Ribeiro Alves Cunha, Regiane Máximo Siqueira and Hugo Tsugunobu Yoshida Yoshizaki
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020060 - 7 Jun 2024
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Background: Disasters have caused suffering across the world throughout history. Different types of disaster events can manifest themselves in different ways, originating from natural phenomena, human actions and their interconnected interactions. In recent years, organizations in charge of disaster management have faced a
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Background: Disasters have caused suffering across the world throughout history. Different types of disaster events can manifest themselves in different ways, originating from natural phenomena, human actions and their interconnected interactions. In recent years, organizations in charge of disaster management have faced a series of challenges in humanitarian logistics, leading to an increasing consideration of the use of models of prioritization, in most multi-criteria models, to define the best alternatives for more assertive and strategic decision-making. Methods: This article aims to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the application of prioritization models in humanitarian logistics. To this end, an analysis was carried out of 40 articles, indexed in the Scopus or Web of Science databases. Results: The descriptive analysis revealed that the majority of applications are aimed at dealing with sudden-onset natural-induced disasters. However, there are still gaps in relevant areas, such as addressing inventory management problems at a tactical decision level. Conclusions: The development of prioritization models necessitates the integration of various methodologies, combining optimization models with multi-criteria decision analysis to yield superior outcomes. It is advised to incorporate four distinct criteria—efficiency, effectiveness, equity, and sustainability—to ensure a comprehensive assessment of the decision-making process.
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Study on the Relationship between Port Governance and Terminal Operation System for Smart Port: Japan Case
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Hideyo Inutsuka, Kinya Ichimura, Yoshihisa Sugimura, Muneo Yoshie and Takeshi Shinoda
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020059 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: To improve port productivity, safety, and sustainability, the use of information and communication technology is being promoted as a smart port. The utilization of a terminal operation system (TOS) is important for advanced port operations, and it is necessary to organize
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Background: To improve port productivity, safety, and sustainability, the use of information and communication technology is being promoted as a smart port. The utilization of a terminal operation system (TOS) is important for advanced port operations, and it is necessary to organize the issues and characteristics of the TOS. Methods: The characteristics of TOSs introduced in Japan and those widely introduced in Europe and Southeast Asia will be investigated and discussed according to the port management system in Japan. Results: Japanese TOSs are characterized by a lack of automated functions, such as ship loading plans, and by the fact that they are designed to allow the crane driver to select the order of operations, which may be attributed to a system wherein stakeholders are segmented and on-site decisions are emphasized. The promotion of smart ports in Japanese-style ports requires a system for information linkage between stakeholders. Conclusions: TOS capabilities for smart ports should be implemented according to the characteristics of port management in each region, and the studies conducted in this paper are useful in examining port system implementation strategies.
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(This article belongs to the Section Maritime and Transport Logistics)
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Use of End-to-End Tool for the Analysis of the Digital Governance of Ports
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Nicoletta González-Cancelas, Alberto Camarero Orive, Alberto Rivas Vilarchao and Javier Vaca-Cabrero
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020058 - 6 Jun 2024
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Background: Digital governance currently presents challenges in the context of ports, where efficiency and transparency are key elements for the success of operations. In ports, the effective adoption of digital governance can have a significant impact on optimizing operational processes and improving
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Background: Digital governance currently presents challenges in the context of ports, where efficiency and transparency are key elements for the success of operations. In ports, the effective adoption of digital governance can have a significant impact on optimizing operational processes and improving coordination between port authorities, logistics operators and customs. Method: In this context, the article proposes the use of an End-to-End Tool to analyze and evaluate digital governance in ports. This tool makes it possible to collect data from various sources, carry out a thorough analysis of the processes involved, and evaluate the satisfaction of end users. In addition, it provides an intuitive and easy-to-use interface to visualize results and make evidence-based decisions. The outcomes revealed areas of improvement in operational processes, identified bottlenecks, and presented proposals to optimize port efficiency. Results: The port currently exhibiting the best digital governance is Valencia, followed by Piraeus, Barcelona, and Algeciras, with very comparable management, and finally, Genoa. Conclusions: Efficient public–private collaboration in digital governance boosts port competitiveness. Regulatory frameworks for data security are crucial, and digital governance emerges as vital for global success.
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The Development of Risk Assessments and Supplier Resilience Models for Military Industrial Supply Chains Considering Rare Disruptions
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Anna Urmston, Dongping Song and Andrew Lyons
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020057 - 4 Jun 2024
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Background: Supply chain risk and resilience in non-profit-seeking industries involving governmental agencies and quasi-governmental agencies have been under-studied. This paper focuses on the military industrial supply chain to demonstrate the development of risk assessment and supplier resilience models considering one-off disruption events
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Background: Supply chain risk and resilience in non-profit-seeking industries involving governmental agencies and quasi-governmental agencies have been under-studied. This paper focuses on the military industrial supply chain to demonstrate the development of risk assessment and supplier resilience models considering one-off disruption events such as the COVID-19 disruption. Methods: We establish relevant resilience-based categories through a literature review, supported by the experiences of supply chain experts within the military industry. We quantify the severity of the identified resilience categories, their detectability, and their occurrence probabilities. The failure modes and effects analysis technique is used to evaluate the risk priorities for the resilience categories to develop a risk assessment model. The risk assessment model is then extended to a supplier resilience model by incorporating specific rare disruption factors, which can act as a scenario planning tool. Results: It is found that (i) the top four resilience sub-categories are financial, topical data, business continuity planning, and supply chain mapping, while cost reduction strategies and green material usage are the least important; (ii) the main areas requiring focus are topical data, supply chain depth awareness, business continuity management, and internal risk management; and (iii) suppliers have least resilience in the areas of ‘topical information’ and ‘business continuity strategy’. Conclusions: The tool developed can help military industrial supply chains identify the main areas to enhance resilience from multiple perspectives of severity, occurrence probability, detectability, and suppliers.
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Open AccessArticle
Fog Computing and Industry 4.0 for Newsvendor Inventory Model Using Attention Mechanism and Gated Recurrent Unit
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Joaquin Gonzalez, Liliana Avelar Sosa, Gabriel Bravo, Oliverio Cruz-Mejia and Jose-Manuel Mejia-Muñoz
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020056 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Efficient inventory management is critical for sustainability in supply chains. However, maintaining adequate inventory levels becomes challenging in the face of unpredictable demand patterns. Furthermore, the need to disseminate demand-related information throughout a company often relies on cloud services. However, this
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Background: Efficient inventory management is critical for sustainability in supply chains. However, maintaining adequate inventory levels becomes challenging in the face of unpredictable demand patterns. Furthermore, the need to disseminate demand-related information throughout a company often relies on cloud services. However, this method sometimes encounters issues such as limited bandwidth and increased latency. Methods: To address these challenges, our study introduces a system that incorporates a machine learning algorithm to address inventory-related uncertainties arising from demand fluctuations. Our approach involves the use of an attention mechanism for accurate demand prediction. We combine it with the Newsvendor model to determine optimal inventory levels. The system is integrated with fog computing to facilitate the rapid dissemination of information throughout the company. Results: In experiments, we compare the proposed system with the conventional demand estimation approach based on historical data and observe that the proposed system consistently outperformed the conventional approach. Conclusions: This research introduces an inventory management system based on a novel deep learning architecture that integrates the attention mechanism with cloud computing to address the Newsvendor problem. Experiments demonstrate the better accuracy of this system in comparison to existing methods. More studies should be conducted to explore its applicability to other demand modeling scenarios.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Digital Supply Chain 4.0 Transformation)
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Make-or-Buy Policy Decision in Maintenance Planning for Mobility: A Multi-Criteria Approach
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Tommaso Ortalli, Andrea Di Martino, Michela Longo and Dario Zaninelli
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020055 - 20 May 2024
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Background: The ongoing technical innovation is fully involving transportation sector, converting the usual mass-transit system toward a sustainable mobility. Make-or-buy decision are usually adopted to assess different solutions in terms of costs-benefits to put in place strategic choices regarding in-house production or
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Background: The ongoing technical innovation is fully involving transportation sector, converting the usual mass-transit system toward a sustainable mobility. Make-or-buy decision are usually adopted to assess different solutions in terms of costs-benefits to put in place strategic choices regarding in-house production or from an external supplier. This can also be reflected on maintenance operations, thus replicating a similar approach to transport companies involved. Method: A decision-making model by means of a multi-criteria analysis can lead make-or-buy choices adapted to maintenance. A brief introduction into the actual mobility context is provided, evaluating global and national trends with respect to the mobility solutions offered. Then, a focus is set on maintenance approaches in mobility sector and the need of a make-or-buy decision process is considered. The decision-making path is developed through a multi-criteria framework based on eigenvector weighing assessment, where different Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are identified and exploited to assess the maintenance approach at stake. Results: A comparison among different scenarios considered helped in identify the solution offered to the transport operator. In particular, for the case study of interest a −35% decrease in maintenance specific cost and −44% in cost variability were found. Reliability of the fleet was kept at an acceptable level compared to the reference in-house maintenance (≥90%) while an increase in the Mean Time Between Failure was observed. Conclusions: For the purposes of a small company, the method can address the choice of outsourcing maintenance as the best. Finally, a general trend is then extrapolated from the analysis performed, in order to constitute a decision guideline. The research can benefit from further analysis to test and validate that the selected approach is effective from the perspective of transport operator.
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Open AccessReview
Closing the Gap: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature on Closed-Loop Supply Chains
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Melissa Zengin, Saman Hassanzadeh Amin and Guoqing Zhang
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020054 - 13 May 2024
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Background: Sustainable closed-loop supply chains have emerged as viable answers to supply chain problems. They can handle environmental damages (e.g., waste) and related social impacts. Closed-loop supply chains (CLSCs) are forward and reverse supply chain networks that have gained popularity in recent
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Background: Sustainable closed-loop supply chains have emerged as viable answers to supply chain problems. They can handle environmental damages (e.g., waste) and related social impacts. Closed-loop supply chains (CLSCs) are forward and reverse supply chain networks that have gained popularity in recent years. Recovery options such as reusing, remanufacturing and recycling can be considered in CLSCs. Methods: This paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of CLSC journal papers published between 2020 and the present. This study examines and synthesizes 54 papers from major publications in this area, covering a wide range of themes and approaches. This paper aims to respond to the following key questions: (i) What are the current trends and challenges in CLSC research, and how have they evolved since previous literature review papers? (ii) What key variables and objectives have been studied in recent CLSC research, and how have they been operationalized? (iii) What are the gaps and limitations in current CLSC research? To our knowledge, other literature review papers in this field have covered older papers, and recent papers have been ignored in them. Another research contribution of this paper is the taxonomy of it. Results: This review article highlights some developing themes and research gaps in the CLSC literature and makes recommendations for further study. Conclusions: This paper provides a comprehensive review of papers on closed-loop supply chain networks.
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Open AccessArticle
Artificial Intelligence Capabilities for Demand Planning Process
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Claudia Aparecida de Mattos, Fernanda Caveiro Correia and Kumiko Oshio Kissimoto
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020053 - 10 May 2024
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Background: Technological advancements, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), are revolutionizing operations management, especially in the domain of supply chain management. This paper delves into the application of AI in demand planning processes within the supply chain context. Drawing upon a comprehensive review
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Background: Technological advancements, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI), are revolutionizing operations management, especially in the domain of supply chain management. This paper delves into the application of AI in demand planning processes within the supply chain context. Drawing upon a comprehensive review of the existing literature, the main objective of this study is to analyze how AI is being applied and adopted in the demand planning process, identifying the resources needed to build the capacity of AI in the demand process, as well as the mechanisms and practices contributing to AI capability’s advancement and formation. Methodology: The approach was qualitative, and case studies of three different companies were conducted. Results: This study identified crucial resources necessary for fostering AI capabilities in demand planning. Our study extends the literature on AI capability in several ways. First, we identify the resources that are important in the formation of the capacity to implement AI in the context of demand planning. Conclusions: This study’s practical contributions underscore the multifaceted nature of AI implementation for demand planning, emphasizing the importance of resource allocation, human capital development, collaborative relationships, organizational alignment, and relational capital and AI.
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Open AccessArticle
Optimizing Last-Mile Delivery: A Multi-Criteria Approach with Automated Smart Lockers, Capillary Distribution and Crowdshipping
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Bartosz Sawik
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020052 - 8 May 2024
Cited by 1
Abstract
Background: This publication presents a review, multiple criteria optimization models, and a practical example pertaining to the integration of automated smart locker systems, capillary distribution networks, crowdshipping, last-mile delivery and supply chain management. This publication addresses challenges in logistics and transportation, aiming
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Background: This publication presents a review, multiple criteria optimization models, and a practical example pertaining to the integration of automated smart locker systems, capillary distribution networks, crowdshipping, last-mile delivery and supply chain management. This publication addresses challenges in logistics and transportation, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce costs and improve customer satisfaction. This study integrates automated smart locker systems, capillary distribution networks, crowdshipping, last-mile delivery and supply chain management. Methods: A review of the existing literature synthesizes key concepts, such as facility location problems, vehicle routing problems and the mathematical programming approach, to optimize supply chain operations. Conceptual optimization models are formulated to solve the complex decision-making process involved in last-mile delivery, considering multiple objectives, including cost minimization, delivery time optimization, service level minimization, capacity optimization, vehicle minimization and resource utilization. Results: The multiple criteria approaches combine the vehicle routing problem and facility location problem, demonstrating the practical applicability of the proposed methodology in a real-world case study within a logistics company. Conclusions: The execution of multi-criteria models optimizes automated smart locker deployment, capillary distribution design, crowdshipping and last-mile delivery strategies, showcasing its effectiveness in the logistics sector.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Criteria Decision-Making and Its Application in Sustainable Smart Logistics)
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Open AccessArticle
The Principal-Agent Theoretical Ramifications on Digital Transformation of Ports in Emerging Economies
by
Benjamin Mosses Sakita, Berit Irene Helgheim and Svein Bråthen
Logistics 2024, 8(2), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8020051 - 8 May 2024
Abstract
Background: Scholarly literature indicates a slow pace at which maritime ports fully embrace digital transformation (DT). The reasons to this are largely anecdotal and lack solid empirical grounding. This inhibits an overall understanding of DT’s tenets and the development of evidence-based policies
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Background: Scholarly literature indicates a slow pace at which maritime ports fully embrace digital transformation (DT). The reasons to this are largely anecdotal and lack solid empirical grounding. This inhibits an overall understanding of DT’s tenets and the development of evidence-based policies and targeted actions. Methods: This study deployed a qualitative case study strategy to unpack the challenges of undertaking DT through the lens of principal-agent theory (PAT). Results: Analysis of data collected through 13 semi-structured interviews from a port’s value chain stakeholders revealed five thematic challenges that contradict successful implementation of DT. These included interagency constraints and system ownership tussles; system sabotage and prevalent corruption; prevalent human agency in port operations; cultural constraints; and political influence on port governance. Conclusions: To address these challenges, the study proposes a four-stage empirically grounded DT strategy framework that guides both practitioners and policymakers through DT endeavors. The framework includes: (1) the port’s value chain mapping, (2) stakeholder engagement, (3) resource mobilization, and (4) effective monitoring. For scholars, we provide an avenue for testing statistical significance of association and causality among the identified challenges.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Global Maritime Logistics in the Era of Industry 4.0)
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