Integrated Logistics Services Research Articles

Environmental Sustainability Practices of Chinese Logistics Service Providers: A Perspective on Corporate Social Responsibility

Guided by the strategic objectives of "carbon neutrality" and "peak carbon" in China, low-carbon development in the logistics industry has become a core driver of industry transformation and upgrading. At the micro-level, companies are gradually accelerating their environmental strategic planning and actively promoting environmental sustainability practices. This paper focuses on logistics service providers (LSPs) and selects representative integrated logistics service companies for multidimensional analysis of corporate social responsibility report information. The paper analyzes the characteristics of environmental sustainability practices in companies from the perspectives of transportation strategies, green packaging, green buildings, and circular economy. Policy recommendations for the low-carbon and green development of Chinese logistics service providers are provided.

A Qualitative-Quantitative Fuzzy Evaluation Model for Selecting an International Ocean Freight Logistics Provider

To ensure the best possible integrated logistics service performance, how to select an international ocean freight logistics provider (IOFLP) suitable for shippers is an important issue. The main purpose of this paper is to construct a qualitative-quantitative fuzzy multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) evaluation model to empirically select an optimal IOFLP. After reviewing the literature and gathering experts' opinions, 23 criteria in five assessment aspects suitable for the selection of an IOFLP were obtained. The study then constructed a fuzzy MCDM selection model based on quantitative-qualitative criteria, and conducted a questionnaire survey of import/export shippers in Taiwan in order to interpret the operating processes of the proposed model. The empirical results indicated that company P was the IOFLP considered optimal by the shippers in Taiwan. Moreover, the proposed qualitative-quantitative fuzzy MCDM method and research methodology in this study can be employed as a practical tool for business applications in the future.

Selection of Functional Logistics Service Providers: AHP and DEMATEL Application

Despite the widespread establishment of logistics service providers, the largest integrated logistics service providers (ILSPs) cannot offer customers a fully customised supply chain without outsourcing some logistics functions, not their strengths, to local companies or specialised service providers. Accordingly, this study investigates the outsourcing of functional logistics activities from logistics integrators, or ILSPs, by focusing on the selection process for functional logistics service providers (FLSPs), especially on the attributes that affect the selection decision. This study uses the hybrid multiple criteria decision-making approach, the AHP-DEMATEL integrated model. The findings include the characterisation of eight main factors affecting the FLSPs’ selection decision, regarding their degree of particular importance and their reciprocal influence inside the decision-making system, from the ILSPs’ perspective. Additionally, the dominance of cost factors is emphasised through a double-analysis using the AHP and DEMATEL methods, while the importance of the remaining factors is also indicated. The final analysis results are discussed with conclusions for detailed insights. Through this study, decision-makers of ILSPs enable the review of the selection process and its standards.

An integrated NPV-based supply chain configuration with third-party logistics services

A well-designed supply chain configuration yields positive net value by creating benefits, reducing costs, and improving firm’s profitability. Nowadays, supply chain also includes third-party logistics service providers (3PLs) which are usually contracted by the supplier or manufacturer to supply integrated logistics services to the buyers or consumers. Efficient utilization of 3PLs is expected to bring benefits such as reducing total costs thereby maximizing profits. The purpose of this research paper is to propose a multi-objective optimization model to derive an integrated net present value-based supply chain configuration for a manufacturing enterprise incorporating the effect of third-party logistics service providers in an uncertain demand scenario. Firstly, the paper presents the conceptual framework considering the third-party logistics service providers for a manufacturing enterprise and thereafter a multi-objective optimization model is proposed to find a compromise solution to NPV maximization and total cost minimization. The model also makes use of Chance Constraint methodology to handle demand uncertainties.

Формування та особливості функціонування регіональних транспортно-логістичних центрів

The special purpose of the transport and logistics centers of the regions, which provide the needs for logistics services, play a coordinating and integrating role in the transport and logistics system and transportation of goods, necessitates the study of their formation issues, operation and development. The purpose of the article is to study the principles, regional peculiarities of the formation and functioning of transport and logistics centers in the appropriate system, taking into account the foreign experience of such structures. Results. It has been determined that the highest economic efficiency is ensured by integrated logistics services, in which the centers simultaneously provide a different range of logistics services with reducing the cost of shipping. The de-velopment of transport and logistics centers in Europe is carried out under the considerable influence of the state, which allows to obtain relevant competitive advantages. The foreign experience of functioning of transport and logistics centers is considered, where rail, road, water and air modes of transport are combined. The features of the German model of construc-tion of logistics centers are considered, where public and private investments are effectively interacting, and the state is di-rectly involved in all phases of project implementation. The differences of the French model are considered, where the man-agement will be carried out exclusively by private investors, and the role of the state is reduced to granting permits in ac-cordance with the goals of local and regional planning. The characteristic of the construction system and structure of logis-tics hub in Europe is given. The units that should be included in the standard transport and logistics center are highlighted. Requirements for creation of transport and logistics center of the region and principles of its functioning are outlined. The main source of financial support should be revenues from the state and local self-government. The effective functioning of the centers is carried out by providing the conditions for optimizing the management of information flows and harmonizing the economic interests of all participants. The advantages of creating a network of centers are zones formation of optimal service to the regions, the functioning of common border transport zones with a single communication infrastructure and preferen-tial treatment. Keywords: transport and logistics centers, transport industry, region, transport and logistics system, logistics hub.

Supply Chain Risk Assessment and Control of Port Enterprises: Qingdao port as case study

China's reform has led to rapid port enterprise development and improved major coastal port throughput capacity and loading efficiency. Modern port enterprises are important nodes in global supply chain integration and have begun to function as integrated logistics service centers. Qingdao port was used to evaluate enterprise supply chain risk. An improved AHP method was used to propose measures to strengthen port enterprise supply chain risk management. Port service process risk, operational risk, port relationship process risk, and external environment-associated risk are too high in this supply chain. To strengthen supply chain risk control, improved port service efficiency, enhanced port operational ability, strengthened membership management, and improved supply chain risk prevention mechanisms are required.

Cost Optimization Control of Logistics Service Supply Chain Based on Cloud Genetic Algorithm

As a kind of service supply chain, logistics service supply chain is an important trend in the development of logistics industry. Compared with developed countries in foreign countries, the level of logistics development in China is lagging behind. Facing the unprecedented competition pressure from foreign logistics enterprises, how to realize the construction and operation with high quality and low cost in logistics service supply chain is one of the key problems at present. Quality cost is the cross field of quality management and cost control, and its function has been widely verified at home and abroad. Therefore, through the research and analysis of the quality cost, the construction and cost optimization method of logistics service supply chain based on cloud genetic algorithm is proposed. The quality cost theory is applied to the related research of logistics service supply chain to realize the integration between integrated logistics service providers and functional logistics service providers with high quality and low cost. At the same time, it can provide the basis and means for quality management and cost control in the long-term operation of logistics service supply chain. Finally, the effectiveness of quality cost in the construction and operation optimization of logistics service supply chain is verified through the case of S Company.

Emerging technological trajectories and new mobility solutions. A large-scale investigation on transport-related innovative start-ups and implications for policy

Innovation in the transport industry is expected from the integration of new technologies and the development of new concepts of mobility. The current transport landscape is experiencing radical changes, as witnessed by the emergence of a multitude of new applications, business models and specialisations, as well as by the entry of new players. The purpose of the paper is to provide a large-scale investigation of technological trajectories and new mobility solutions outlined by start-ups and young companies in the global transport industry. The paper employs network analysis to detect productive and innovative activities of firms founded between 2001 and 2016. Our findings highlight that three clusters of interconnected technologies and transport-related solutions are emerging: new cars prototypes and alternative vehicles prompt innovation in autonomous driving; technologies for transport sharing and public transit data analysis stimulate new solutions in urban livability; management systems, platform development and vehicle-optimization technologies bring innovative specializations in the integrated logistics services. Results provide policy-makers, venture capitalists, as well as open innovation teamsin large corporations, with quantitative and relevant findings on transport-related innovative solutions.

Combined fleet deployment and inventory management in roll-on/roll-off shipping

In maritime transportation of automobiles, roll-on/roll-off (ro–ro) shipping companies operate liner shipping services across major trade routes. Large ro–ro shipping companies are well placed to offer end-to-end integrated logistics services to auto manufacturers engaged in international trade of vehicles. Therefore, we present a new mixed integer programming model for fleet deployment including inventory management at the ports along each trade route. Due to the complexity of the problem, a rolling horizon heuristic (RHH) is proposed. The RHH solves the problem by iteratively solving sub-problems with shorter planning horizon. Computational results based on real instances are presented.

The Efficiency and Productivity Analysis of Large Logistics Providers Services in Korea

ABSTRACT In the fierce competition at the global logistics markets, Korean logistics providers were deemed more vulnerable than global logistics providers in terms of the quality and price competitiveness. To strengthen their competitiveness, logistics providers in Korea have focused on delivering integrated logistics services. In this regard, the Korean government has enacted the “Integrated Logistics Industry Certification Act” in 2006 to assist integrated logistics providers to offer logistics services based on their specialization and differentiation. It has been several years since the system was implemented, and the evaluation of the system implementation was necessary. Hence, in our study, we attempt to examine the efficiency and productivity of fourteen certified Korean logistics providers employing the DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis) method with a five-year panel data since the inception of the Act. Through our static and dynamic analyses, We found that Pantos Logistics and HYUNDAI Glovis are running their businesses at the highest level of efficiency and Hanjin Transportation was the most stable company in their logistics operation.

Calculation Method on Reliability of Logistics Service Supply Chain Based on Stochastic Petri Nets

Logistics service supply chain provides the customer with integrated logistics service, and reliability is the essential character of logistics service. Logistic capacity and two-echelon structure of logistics service supply chain is analyzed in this article, and the reliability problem of logistics service supply chain is modelled based on stochastic Petri nets, then reliability index (steady state availability and reliability) is also analyzed, which provides indispensable information to reliability management of logistics service supply chain.

Port Service Efficiency Model Based on Optimization of Supply Chain Logistics System

To provide a high efficiency, high benefit, integrated logistics service for shippers, based on the thought of supply chain management, used the open and closed queuing network model of the maritime queuing network to calculate the optimal port services efficiency. The achievement in research of the thesis is of great theoretical significance to planning and resource allocation of port, and selected ports by the ship and cargo owners.

Research on Service Modes of Steel Processing and Distribution Centers in China

Steel processing and distribution centers in China have been constructed by iron and steel enterprises, by warehousing enterprises, by steel circulation enterprises, or by end users. These centers connect steel mills with end users, which’s logistics service level affects the competitive advantages of steel supply-chain. So their common characters, problems and development tendency are analyzed in this paper. Based on this analysis, three service modes with cases are proposed, such as integrated logistics service mode, comprehensive logistics service mode, integrated value chain logistics service mode. Which one mode has been adopted, these centers should take some measures to improve service level and reduce costs. Four measures are put forward for these centers, respectively mastering the dynamic market situation, designing market oriented service mechanism, optimizing the supply chain, re-engineering business process.

Study on 3PL Logistics Firms Service Management

Competing on service is an absolute must in today’s business environment. The globalization of business and the increase in competitive pressures have prompted many firms to develop logistics as a part of their corporate strategy for cost and service advantages, To fully satisfy the increasing requirements of customers for one-stop services, many logistics service providers (LSPs) have taken initiatives to broaden the scope of their services in P.R.China, Based on surveyed ,we found out industry firms hope the third party logistics(3PL) to reduce logistics costs and provide integrated logistics services, 3PL could make logistics strategy to satisfy customers requirements.

Logistics Cooperation: Integrated Logistics Services

High quality service delivery is one of the key factors to survive in the market. It is highly important to meet the needs of the client since business survival depends on the client’s use of business services. In recent years, the requirements of customers for the companies providing logistics services, known as third party logistics (3 PL), are continuously rising. It is obvious that the clients, insisting on the total complex of logistics services, expect additional services which would enable them to compete in the market on more favourable terms. The present article is aimed at analysing theoretical and practical aspects of third party logistics and suggesting the integrated logistics services model based on the Lithuanian example.

Research on Choice of Logistic Service Sub-Contractor Based on Reliability and Cost

In order to meet the clients’ needs of integrated logistics service, Logistics service integrator integrates the logistics service provided by logistics service sub-contractors. Logistics service integrator usually can subcontract logistics service to redundancy logistics service sub-contractors in order to improve the reliability of logistics service. However, the redundancy logistics service contractors will raise the cost of logistics service supply chain(LSSC). Therefore, in limited circumstances of cost of LSSC, logistics service integrator will present the optimal scheme of reliability configuration. In this paper, the optimization model of logistics service supply chain based on reliability and redundancy logistics service contractors is provided, logistics service process is analysed, and, finally, the model is solved.

Emerging Enforcement Target: Global Commerce – Logistics and Transport Sector Targeted by Increased U.S. Export Controls and Anti-corruption Enforcement Actions: How to Protect Y

As a country that will import approximately 95% of all articles consumed in 2010, the sheer breadth of the U.S. importing/ exporting business means that companies of all sizes regularly interact with the complex world of integrated logistics services. The role of freight forwarders and carriers, the “agents” for the exporter, has become more central. At the same time, there has been a dramatic increase in the number and severity of U.S. export controls and anti-bribery enforcement actions against logistics providers at all levels of the supply chain. Dealing with this reality must be both strategic and tactical. These multiagency investigations clearly illustrate that logistics providers, like U.S. exporters, are expected to have effective up-to-date export compliance and anti-bribery compliance programs. Logistics providers have become a target and are seen as a last line of defense for the prevention of dangerous diversion of goods and threats to homeland security.

Strategies of terminal operating companies in changing environments

This paper deals with the changing role of terminal operating companies (TOCs) in supply chains. Relevant trends in the port industry and the consequences for terminal operators are discussed. A framework to analyse strategies of TOCs, based on Brewer's [2001 Handbook of logistics and supply chain management. Amsterdam: Pergamon.] classification of logistics service providers with regard to their geographical coverage and provision of integrated logistics solution is developed. The framework is applied to TOCs in the Netherlands with the use of a survey. TOCs in the Netherlands increasingly offer integrated logistics services. The number of additional services, next to the terminal services, offered depends on the commodities that are handled by TOCs; container TOCs offer fewer integrated logistics services than breakbulk TOCs. Most of the TOCs (still) operate in their ‘home port’ alone but roughly 15% of them have plans to expand internationally. TOCs mostly provide additional services in-house, partnerships are less well developed. These conclusions enhance the understanding of the changing role of TOCs in supply chains.

Activities, resources and inter-organizational relationships: key factors in port competitiveness

In the last decade, the port economics literature has given great emphasis to the Supply Chain Management approach as the new paradigm for the definition of port competitiveness. SCM supports the development of partnerships between the actors of the supply chain and considers the integration of activities and resources along business processes as source of competitive advantage. Nevertheless, the application of SCM approach to the port is particularly compiex given the traditional hostile relationships between port actors. In the effort to overcome such complexity, some authors have considered ports as Logistics Service Providers and interpreted their role within supply chains through the integrative practices undertaken by Global Players–mainly Shipping Companies and Terminal Operators–in the supply of integrated logistics services. Even tough these actors are crucial for the port competitiveness, they determine a passive role of port in the new competitive scenario. The definition of a potential and pro-active role of port in the supply chains is the objective of this paper that presents, through a literature review on SCM and port competitiveness, a new framework for port competitiveness. According to this framework, that is based on the value constellation concept value is generated by joint effort of port actors in the satisfaction of clients' needs, through the exploitation of different I mterdependencies (serial, pooled and reciprocal) between supply chains. In this context, Port Authority has a I fundamental role in identifying those resources–the so called critical assets–that encourage the development of inter-organisational relationships between port actors in the value generation process.

A Supplementary Framework for Evaluation of Integrated Logistics Service Provider

As a result of globalization, supply chains of many large business organizations nowadays tend to cover wider geographic areas spanning across different countries and continents. The growth in length and complexity gradually replaces the traditional linear supply chains with extended supply networks comprising not only suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and end customers, but also service providers. With the increasing use of third-party logistics (3PL) providers by international firms seeking integrated logistics services, many global 3PL providers are forming partnerships with large corporations to take care of the latter’s logistics operations in different regions. The selection of the right 3PL provider for alliance is therefore paramount to the success of global supply chain management. This article investigates the significance of this subject and proposes a supplementary framework for evaluation of 3PL providers as global logistics partners for international firms. The framework focuses on the core competencies of 3PL providers and their abilities to attain economies of scale helping users achieve their outsourcing objectives.