Decision Variables for Inbound Transportation Redesign in a Chemical Manufacturing Supply Chain

Abstract

With respect to process manufacturing industries, there has been limited research on inbound transportation management in the literature. While some of the methods and strategies developed in the discrete manufacturing industry are easily applicable in the process industries, increasing changes in business environment through emerging technologies and a push for increasing sustainability performance motivates the need for research that addresses the needs of process manufacturers. The purpose of this paper is therefore to provide an overview of current research on key variables to consider when deciding inbound transportation strategy. Those factors are then discussed by looking at the opportunities and challenges they present in the process manufacturing supply chain context, via a case study of a paints and chemicals manufacturing company. Data from the case study was collected during a workshop at the main factory location, and several follow-up interviews. The main opportunities identified are improved sustainability and visibility, while main challenges are increased complexity, and increase in coordination requirements with more collaboration.