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 25.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 9.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Journal Rank: 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:
3.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.9 (2022)
Latest Articles
Performance Evaluation of Retail Warehouses: A Combined MCDM Approach Using G-BWM and RATMI
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010010 - 12 Jan 2024
Abstract
Background: The retail sector has experienced significant growth in recent years, necessitating efficient supply chain management and sustainable logistics practices. Evaluating the performance of retail warehouses is crucial for meeting customer expectations and enhancing operational efficiency. Methods: This study employed a
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Background: The retail sector has experienced significant growth in recent years, necessitating efficient supply chain management and sustainable logistics practices. Evaluating the performance of retail warehouses is crucial for meeting customer expectations and enhancing operational efficiency. Methods: This study employed a combined multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach, using the group best–worst method (G-BWM) for weighting criteria and ranking the alternatives based on the trace-to-median index (RATMI) for warehouse ranking. The performance criteria were cost, quality, time, productivity, and safety. Data were collected from four mega retail warehouses in the western region of Saudi Arabia for evaluation and analysis. Results: The evaluation of retail warehouse performance using the MCDM approach provided valuable insights for decision-makers and warehouse experts. The criteria weights were determined using the G-BWM, and the RATMI enabled the ranking of the warehouses based on their weighted performance scores. The results highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each warehouse, facilitating strategic planning, resource allocation, and operational improvements. Conclusions: This study presents a novel combined MCDM performance evaluation approach for retail warehouses. The study has implications for effective decision-making processes, resource allocation, and operational efficiency. Furthermore, it serves as a foundation for future research, exploring additional dimensions of warehouse performance and enabling sustainable logistics within the broader supply chain context.
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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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Efficient Humanitarian Logistics: Multi-Commodity Location–Inventory Model Incorporating Demand Probability and Consumption Coefficients
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010009 - 11 Jan 2024
Abstract
Background: A logistics network plan could be a major key issue due to its effect on supply chain effectiveness and responsiveness. This study aims to investigate the inventory location in the humanitarian logistics response stage using a three-level logistics network to integrate location–allocation
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Background: A logistics network plan could be a major key issue due to its effect on supply chain effectiveness and responsiveness. This study aims to investigate the inventory location in the humanitarian logistics response stage using a three-level logistics network to integrate location–allocation problems such as warehouse location and shelter allocation to each facility, and then determine the inventory level in each warehouse. Methods: In this research, the center and its distribution, as well as the reduction in service-level costs due to inventory deficit, have been considered to increase the level of shelter services. In order to investigate the network, in this study, bi-objective mixed-integer linear programming (BOMILP) is presented. Results: The first objective is to reduce location costs and inventory costs that take into account probable demand, consumption factors, and transportation costs, and the second objective is to raise the level of services offered to victims in the model. The software programs GAMS win32, 25.1.2 and MATLAB have been utilized with numerical examples in various dimensions. Conclusions: To maximize the efficiency and quality of the service, first, the model was numerically solved, and then the location where the most commodities could be transported at the lowest possible cost was identified.
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(This article belongs to the Section Humanitarian and Healthcare Logistics)
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Quick-Response Model for Pre- and Post-Disaster Evacuation and Aid Distribution: The Case of the Tula River Flood Event
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Logistics 2024, 8(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010008 - 06 Jan 2024
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Background: In the context of humanitarian logistics, efficiently evacuating people from disaster-stricken areas is a complex challenge. This study focuses on the Tula River region in Hidalgo, Mexico, exploring the evacuation and support of individuals in temporary shelters. Despite the fact that
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Background: In the context of humanitarian logistics, efficiently evacuating people from disaster-stricken areas is a complex challenge. This study focuses on the Tula River region in Hidalgo, Mexico, exploring the evacuation and support of individuals in temporary shelters. Despite the fact that the topic has been addressed in the literature, it is necessary to have quick response methods that can be used by decision-makers to adapt and utilize existing spaces as temporary shelters, in addition to knowing how to evacuate people. Methods: Addressing this void, a methodology to minimize evacuation and aid distribution costs is introduced. Leveraging existing algorithms, particularly Integer Linear Programming, the model determines shelter activation and utilizes the Vehicle Routing Problem to assess aid delivery strategies. Results: The research identifies optimal evacuation routes from 13 affected areas to 34 shelters and analyzes aid distribution costs under various demand scenarios: original, increased, and decreased by 10%, based on the number of transport units allocated and Google Maps distances. It also evaluates the costs associated with humanitarian aid distribution under varying collection strategies, involving state and municipal governments. Conclusion: This approach provides a decision-making foundation and can be adapted for similar analyses in other communities during extreme events.
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Open AccessArticle
Examination of Logistics Simulation Demand Related to Enterprises: Focusing on a Hungarian County
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010007 - 04 Jan 2024
Abstract
Background: Despite the fact that some results can be found for the logistics simulation in the literature, there is a lack of an experiment based on inner company data. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the potential need for this kind of solution
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Background: Despite the fact that some results can be found for the logistics simulation in the literature, there is a lack of an experiment based on inner company data. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the potential need for this kind of solution by Zala County enterprises. Methods: As a first step, the paper presents the existing literature with the help of a literature review. Afterwards, questionnaire sampling was conducted among local enterprises. The paper applies several statistical methods (e.g., descriptive statistics, SPSS, exploratory factor analysis, and structural equation modeling) to the sample for the validation of the reorganization demand. Results: The study obtained a total of 147 complete responses from the 1022 invitations. An overwhelming majority of the respondents indicated regular and significant delays in their logistics processes, as well as the need for a new simulation method. Based on the SEM model, it has been observed that IT solutions are being utilized in an inefficient manner, resulting in logistical system issues and operational damages. Conclusion: The paper successfully identified a research gap, the research of which can have not only theoretical but also many practical benefits. Hopefully, the results will generate other academic research in this field.
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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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Global Supply Chains Made Visible through Logistics Security Management
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010006 - 04 Jan 2024
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Background: For several years, two of the major concerns of logistics managers are (i) the visibility of global supply chains and (ii) the uncertainty in deciding which existing logistics security program is the most appropriate according to the security levels for their organization.
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Background: For several years, two of the major concerns of logistics managers are (i) the visibility of global supply chains and (ii) the uncertainty in deciding which existing logistics security program is the most appropriate according to the security levels for their organization. This last decision is needed to ensure traceability and visibility of the supply chain. The purpose of this paper is to present an analysis of the main public and private supply chain security management programs in Latin America and the Caribbean. Methods: A qualitative and quantitative research methodology based on thematic content analysis is followed. The four main existing security programs in Latin America and the Caribbean are systematically compared and a common general framework is developed. Results: The analysis shows a high degree of similarity between the levels of security contained in the selected programs. Conclusions: We found that there is little guidance available for companies interested in managing security risks in their supply chains through these logistics’ security programs. This article contributes to the literature on logistics security programs that is currently gaining momentum in managing security risks in global supply chains and provides academic insights into the choice and/or complementarity of one or more logistics security programs.
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Supply Chain Complexity and Its Impact on Knowledge Transfer: Incorporating Sustainable Supply Chain Practices in Food Supply Chain Networks
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010005 - 03 Jan 2024
Abstract
Background: The dynamics of supply chain networks have changed due to increasing complexities. Global expansions and knowledge transfer in supply chain networks bring efficiency and effectiveness to companies. However, the probability of supply chain complexity has also been seen increasing. The barriers
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Background: The dynamics of supply chain networks have changed due to increasing complexities. Global expansions and knowledge transfer in supply chain networks bring efficiency and effectiveness to companies. However, the probability of supply chain complexity has also been seen increasing. The barriers to sustainable supply chain networks need to be tackled in an effective manner as they impact business operations. Therefore, it is essential to eliminate and reduce the supply chain complexities, as it will facilitate the process of knowledge transfer and increase the implementation of sustainable practises in supply chain networks. In the previous research, four supply chain complexity drivers were identified. Previous research identified four supply chain complexity drivers by conducting a systematic review. This study investigates which of the four complexity drivers impacts knowledge transfer in the context of the food supply chain sector. Methods: In this research, knowledge transfer is therefore examined from the perspective of sustainable food supply chains. Thirty exploratory qualitative interviews were conducted in this study and analysed using Nvivo (v12) software. This study utilised thematic analysis techniques for the evaluation of the interviews to gather results. Results: The results illustrated six main factors classified under broad categories: integration of Knowledge Transfer, incorporation of technological advancements in supply chain networks, supply chain complexity solutions, supply chain complexity drivers, sustainable supply chain networks, and capability to reduce supply chain complexity. The findings of this study highlight that process complexity significantly influences the process of knowledge transfer in food supply chain networks. The research findings contribute to both academic and practical domains. This study contributes to the aggregation of supply chain complexity and its impact on Knowledge Transfer. Additionally, the findings support supply chain networks, which strive to achieve efficient Knowledge Transfer to attain sustainable value in business operations. Conclusion: This study has proven that robust knowledge transfer reduces supply chain complexity as it makes supply chain systems more resilient and well-coordinated in many potential ways.
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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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Fertilizer Logistics in Brazil: Application of a Mixed-Integer Programming Mathematical Model for Optimal Mixer Locations
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010004 - 03 Jan 2024
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Background: Brazil is one of the largest consumers of fertilizers and is highly dependent on the international market to meet its demand for agricultural production inputs. The complexity of the fertilizer supply chain motivated us to carry out this study on redesigning the
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Background: Brazil is one of the largest consumers of fertilizers and is highly dependent on the international market to meet its demand for agricultural production inputs. The complexity of the fertilizer supply chain motivated us to carry out this study on redesigning the fertilizer logistics chain and evaluate strategies for reducing logistics costs by redesigning the fertilizer mixing network in Brazil, a country that is heavily dependent on imported fertilizers for agriculture. Methods: We introduce a multi-product mixed-integer linear programming optimization model encompassing the logistics network, from import ports to mixing factories and agricultural fertilizer supply centers. This model includes logistics infrastructure and taxes, accounting for greenhouse gas emissions (specifically carbon dioxide) in fertilizer logistics. Results: The results indicate that expanding the port capacity for fertilizer importation can significantly reduce logistics costs and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 22.5%, decreasing by 23.9% compared to the baseline. We also observed that removing taxes on fertilizer importation can reduce logistics costs by approximately 11%, but it increases greenhouse gas emissions by 2.25% due to increased reliance on road transport. We identified 15 highly resilient regions for establishing mixing factories, evaluated various scenarios and determined the importance of these locations in optimizing the fertilizer supply network in the country. Moreover, the results suggest a significant potential to enhance the role of Brazil’s Northern Arc region in fertilizer import flows. Conclusions: Public policies and private initiatives could be directed toward encouraging the establishment of mixing factories in the identified regions and increasing transport capacity in the Northern Arc region. Improving the logistical conditions of the fertilizer network would contribute to food security by reducing the costs of essential inputs in food production and promoting sustainability by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
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Open AccessReview
Impacts of Adopting Additive Manufacturing Process on Supply Chain: Systematic Literature Review
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010003 - 03 Jan 2024
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Background: The objective of this literature review is to systematically explore the supply chain (SC)-related issues of additive manufacturing (AM)-based production processes. For SC sustainability, efficiency, and performance improvements, the adoptation of disruptive technologies like AM plays a vital role, because the product’s
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Background: The objective of this literature review is to systematically explore the supply chain (SC)-related issues of additive manufacturing (AM)-based production processes. For SC sustainability, efficiency, and performance improvements, the adoptation of disruptive technologies like AM plays a vital role, because the product’s SC benefits in terms of reduced total lead time and costs. Methods: To explore the state-of-the-art influences of AM on the SC in this study, 978 papers published in peer-reviewed journals from 2004 to 2023 were retrieved, and 70 of these were identified as the most relevant and then reviewed. Results: As an outcome, the results of this review paper indicated a lack of documented studies in developing countries and, as a result, limited research works, for instance, in fashion industries were observed. In addition, AM best practices in the SC context have been identified and categorized as cost-related, time-related, inventor-related, as well as energy-, waste-, and environment-related factors, SC efficiency factors, and flexibility, marketing, and manufacturing-related factors. Conclusions: By identifying these categories, the study aims to contribute to the efforts of transforming traditional manufacturing into AM-based processes, for which a framework for the AM SC implementation is developed. In summary, the systematic review indicated that further research work is needed on the impacts of the identified AM best practices on SC performance.
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Contextual Comparative Analysis of Dar es Salaam and Mombasa Port Performance by Using a Hybrid DEA(CVA) Model
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010002 - 02 Jan 2024
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Background: This research conducts a contextual comparative analysis between Dar es Salaam and Mombasa ports, employing a hybrid data envelopment analysis (DEA) model that integrates the contextual value-added approach (CVA). The assessment incorporates various inputs (quay length, number of cranes, and storage area)
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Background: This research conducts a contextual comparative analysis between Dar es Salaam and Mombasa ports, employing a hybrid data envelopment analysis (DEA) model that integrates the contextual value-added approach (CVA). The assessment incorporates various inputs (quay length, number of cranes, and storage area) and outputs (number of ship calls and cargo throughput) to compute efficiency scores, offering nuanced insights into the strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement of both ports. Methods: The hybrid DEA model with CVA is applied to calculate efficiency scores, considering the diverse inputs and outputs. This approach allows for a comprehensive evaluation of the relative performance of Dar es Salaam and Mombasa ports. The study also explores the influence of trade-related externalities on port efficiency, providing a holistic understanding of the factors shaping the ports’ operational effectiveness. Results: The efficiency scores depict distinctive performance trends between Dar es Salaam and Mombasa ports. Notably, Dar es Salaam exhibits maximum efficiency (efficiency value of 1) in 2018 and 2021, while Mombasa attains optimal performance (efficiency value of 1) in 2021. However, efficiency values fluctuate for both ports in other years, ranging between 0.895 and 0.985 for Mombasa and 0.924 and 0.960 for Dar es Salaam. Conclusions: This study highlights the dynamic efficiency levels of Dar es Salaam and Mombasa ports over multiple years and identifies critical factors influencing their performance. The findings contribute valuable insights to the field of port analysis, offering guidance to port management and policymakers in optimizing the efficiency and competitiveness of these vital maritime hubs.
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Enhancing City Logistics for Sustainable Development in Jordan: A Survey-Based Study
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Logistics 2024, 8(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010001 - 28 Dec 2023
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Background: The global concern for the environment and sustainable development goals has led to a growing focus on the increasing activities of city logistics. This research study aims to evaluate the current state of city logistics within the framework of sustainable development
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Background: The global concern for the environment and sustainable development goals has led to a growing focus on the increasing activities of city logistics. This research study aims to evaluate the current state of city logistics within the framework of sustainable development and analyze the key factors that impact the efficient management of city logistics in Jordan. Methods: To achieve these research objectives, a quantitative approach utilizing a survey questionnaire was employed. The findings emphasize a significant disparity between current practices in city logistics and desired outcomes, indicating an urgent need for improvement in cost reduction, enhancement of quality of life, and promotion of sustainability. Results: The results reveal that the performance of urban authorities in managing city logistics is influenced by various factors, including regulatory inefficiencies, suboptimal human resource performance, deficiencies in information systems, and challenges related to coordination amongst stakeholders. Conclusions: Consequently, this paper puts forth actionable recommendations for improving city logistics management, which involve amending existing regulations, implementing comprehensive training programs for employees, strengthening infrastructure for information systems, and fostering robust communication channels between urban authorities and stakeholders.
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The Impact of Service Orientation and Airport Service Quality on Passenger Satisfaction and Image: Evidence from Indonesia
Logistics 2023, 7(4), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040102 - 15 Dec 2023
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Background: Airport service quality and service orientation are important aspects of managing passenger satisfaction and airport image. The aim of this paper is to analyze the influence of service orientation and airport service quality on airport image through passenger satisfaction as an
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Background: Airport service quality and service orientation are important aspects of managing passenger satisfaction and airport image. The aim of this paper is to analyze the influence of service orientation and airport service quality on airport image through passenger satisfaction as an intervention variable. Methods: The survey was conducted on 356 passengers at the departure area and lounge. Samples were taken at five major airports in Indonesia, including Soekarno Hatta International Airport. To test the influence of exogenous variables on endogenous variables through intervening variables, a quantitative testing analysis test was carried out using the structural equation model partial least square (SEM-PLS). Result: The research results show that service orientation has a significant and positive effect on airport service quality, passenger satisfaction, and airport image. Moreover, service quality also has a positive effect on passenger satisfaction and the airport’s image. Empirically, passenger satisfaction has been proven to mediate the influence of service quality and service orientation on airport image. It has been proven that airport operators who focus on passengers through service orientation can increase passenger satisfaction and the airport’s image. Conclusions: Focusing on passengers’ needs while at the airport is an important aspect for airport operators who aim to manage their emotions, which encourages passengers to use paid services while in the waiting room. The use of this paid service will directly increase the airport’s aeronautical revenue. Future research needs to consider the influence of image on purchase intention and return to the airport.
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Optimizing Utilization of Transport Capacities in the Cold Chain by Introducing Dynamic Allocation of Semi-Trailers
Logistics 2023, 7(4), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040101 - 14 Dec 2023
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Background: Road transport companies utilize transport capacities as fixed compositions of tractors and semi-trailers, while the possibility of exchanging semi-trailers is considered ad hoc, after some unforeseen circumstances emerge on the route. Such an approach is a limiting factor in achieving optimal utilization
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Background: Road transport companies utilize transport capacities as fixed compositions of tractors and semi-trailers, while the possibility of exchanging semi-trailers is considered ad hoc, after some unforeseen circumstances emerge on the route. Such an approach is a limiting factor in achieving optimal utilization of transport capacities, and consequently affects profitability. We proposed a new concept of vehicle fleet management where semi-trailers would not be permanently assigned to the tractors, but could be dynamically reassigned, to utilize optimally the vehicle fleet, on considering the planned itinerary, the driver’s working hours, and traffic conditions. Methods: We set the key performance indicators and developed a prototype application based on the concept of dynamic semi-trailer allocation. We simulated the use of the prototype application on the historical data collected in the case study on one of the leading transport companies in the cold chain, and evaluated the benefits that may be achieved thereof. Results: Simulation showed that implementing the proposed concept enabled the reduction of the vehicle workdays spent on-the-route, the reduction of the number of vehicle compositions needed to handle the transport demand, and improved the quality of service. Conclusions: The proposed concept is beneficial for transport companies that operate large vehicle fleets on long-haul routes, with several transport orders per route. The prototype application may be the basis for developing a fully functional application that can be integrated into the fleet management system.
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Design and Implementation of Integral Ergo-Value Stream Mapping in a Metal-Mechanical Company to Improve Ergonomic and Productive Conditions: A Case Study
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Logistics 2023, 7(4), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040100 - 12 Dec 2023
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The Integral Ergonomic-Value Stream Mapping (Ergo-VSM) methodology is introduced in this study, which is tailored for the metal-mechanic sector and aims to assess the operational and ergonomic conditions of production processes. The methodology is designed to identify ergonomic risks and propose an improvement
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The Integral Ergonomic-Value Stream Mapping (Ergo-VSM) methodology is introduced in this study, which is tailored for the metal-mechanic sector and aims to assess the operational and ergonomic conditions of production processes. The methodology is designed to identify ergonomic risks and propose an improvement plan to increase productivity by integrating ergonomic measurement instruments aligned with official standards and lean manufacturing tools such as VSM and Kaizen. The study, which was conducted in a metal-mechanical MSME (micro, small and medium enterprises), resulted in an 11.8% overall improvement in psychosocial risk factors, a 4.4% increase in productivity with a 1.96-h reduction in cycle time, and a 20% decrease in reported quality rejections. Notably, the study shows that the Integral Ergo-VSM can be implemented in a variety of organizational contexts, ensuring adaptability without jeopardizing the methodology’s core objectives.
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Open AccessReview
Industry 4.0 Implementation in Small- and Medium-Sized Enterprises: Recommendations Extracted from a Systematic Literature Review with a Focus on Maturity Models
Logistics 2023, 7(4), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040099 - 12 Dec 2023
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Background: Industry 4.0 signifies a profound global transformation in production and service activities through its novel organizational principles, including digital connectivity, information transparency, technical assistance, and decentralized decision making. This transformation poses significant challenges for businesses, particularly small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
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Background: Industry 4.0 signifies a profound global transformation in production and service activities through its novel organizational principles, including digital connectivity, information transparency, technical assistance, and decentralized decision making. This transformation poses significant challenges for businesses, particularly small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In response, maturity models have been developed and adapted to facilitate a transparent and supportive entry into this transformative domain. Method/Aim: This study is dedicated to the comprehensive analysis of Industry 4.0 maturity models through a systematic literature review to identify and evaluate previously published recommendations for the adoption and utilization of Industry 4.0. The aim is to provide valuable insights in this context, with a particular focus on easing entry into this domain for SMEs. Results: Quantitative findings reveal a growing demand for fundamental support when entering this domain, with maturity models capable of meeting the demand for structured guidance. However, these models are currently under-validated, lacking transparency, and are often unsuitable for SMEs. Qualitative results categorize numerous insights and recommendations into ten distinct categories related to Industry 4.0. Conclusions: This paper provides a structured summary to support newcomers, research institutions, and businesses in effectively initiating and optimizing their Industrsy 4.0 activities.
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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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The Last-Mile Delivery of Heavy, Bulky, Oversized Products: Literature Review and Research Agenda
Logistics 2023, 7(4), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040098 - 12 Dec 2023
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Background: Last-mile delivery (LMD) is a challenging and costly supply chain process that involves direct customer interaction. In a recent study by the World Economic Forum, it was emphasized that last-mile logistics is an emerging research area. In particular, the European Commission
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Background: Last-mile delivery (LMD) is a challenging and costly supply chain process that involves direct customer interaction. In a recent study by the World Economic Forum, it was emphasized that last-mile logistics is an emerging research area. In particular, the European Commission Directorate General for Energy and Transport provides guidelines for abnormal road transport, such as heavy, bulky, and oversized (HBO) products. In the last few years, many research articles have been published on the topic of LMD. Several literature review studies from the perspective of different stakeholders have also been published. The delivery of HBO products is more challenging in many ways compared to parcel delivery. Although HBO products yield the most profitable sales, the LMD of HBOs is less studied compared to parcel deliveries. Methods: This research employed a descriptive review method to scan 195 published articles and reports related to LMD and HBOs. Results: Our results identified the challenges in the field and identified the need for separate approaches for different customer segments, such as rural and urban customers, as well as older and younger customers, when formulating delivery strategies. Conclusions: This paper highlights the research gap in this field by using a descriptive literature review methodology and presents academic contributions available so far, as well as challenges for further research.
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(This article belongs to the Section Last Mile, E-Commerce and Sales Logistics)
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An Integrated Methodology for Enhancing Reverse Logistics Flows and Networks in Industry 5.0
Logistics 2023, 7(4), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040097 - 11 Dec 2023
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Background: This paper explores the potential of Industry 5.0 in driving societal transition to a circular economy. We focus on the strategic role of reverse logistics in this context, underlining its significance in optimizing resource use, reducing waste, and enhancing sustainable production
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Background: This paper explores the potential of Industry 5.0 in driving societal transition to a circular economy. We focus on the strategic role of reverse logistics in this context, underlining its significance in optimizing resource use, reducing waste, and enhancing sustainable production and consumption patterns. Adopting sustainable industrial practices is critical to addressing global environmental challenges. Industry 5.0 offers opportunities for achieving these goals, particularly through the enhancement of reverse logistics processes. Methods: We propose an integrated methodology that combines binary logistic regression and decision trees to predict and optimize reverse logistics flows and networks within the Industry 5.0 framework. Results: The methodology demonstrates effective quantitative modeling of influential predictors in reverse logistics and provides a structured framework for understanding their interrelations. It yields actionable insights that enhance decision-making processes in supply chain management. Conclusions: The methodology supports the integration of advanced technologies and human-centered approaches into industrial reverse logistics, thereby improving resource sustainability, systemic innovation, and contributing to the broader goals of a circular economy. Future research should explore the scalability of this methodology across different industrial sectors and its integration with other Industry 5.0 technologies. Continuous refinement and adaptation of the methodology will be necessary to keep pace with the evolving landscape of industrial sustainability.
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Open AccessReview
Sustainable Supplier Selection through Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) Approach: A Bibliometric Analysis
Logistics 2023, 7(4), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040096 - 08 Dec 2023
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Background: The primary objective of this study was to examine the advancements in sustainable supplier selection through multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) from the years 2013 to 2022. In the recent past, researchers have carried out a significant amount of research in this
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Background: The primary objective of this study was to examine the advancements in sustainable supplier selection through multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) from the years 2013 to 2022. In the recent past, researchers have carried out a significant amount of research in this field over the course of several years; Methods: a total of 121 scientific publications sourced from the Scopus database were chosen for analysis, employing the bibliometric method and graphical visualization of the VOS viewer application to visually analyze and map research networks and collaboration patterns, aiding in the evaluation of scientific impact and knowledge dissemination; Results: the findings of this study indicate that the research trend in sustainable supplier selection through MCDM witnessed its most significant growth in the year 2019. Researchers predominantly disseminated their scientific findings through articles, accounting for 81% of the publications, followed by conference papers at 14%, and book chapters at 2.5%; Conclusions: the primary area of focus in these studies pertains to decision-making processes involved in sustainable supplier selection. The implications and theoretical contributions derived from this research, coupled with the latest advancements, serve as a foundation for further exploration and development of sustainable supplier selection research through MCDM.
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(This article belongs to the Section Supplier, Government and Procurement Logistics)
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MARLIN Method: Enhancing Warehouse Resilience in Response to Disruptions
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Logistics 2023, 7(4), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040095 - 07 Dec 2023
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Background: Endogenous and exogenous factors impact the operational characteristics of supply chains, affecting wholesale warehouses. The survival of a warehouse is often threatened by disruptive events that alter infrastructure and performance. The emergence of COVID-19 exemplified the need for adaptability in retail goods
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Background: Endogenous and exogenous factors impact the operational characteristics of supply chains, affecting wholesale warehouses. The survival of a warehouse is often threatened by disruptive events that alter infrastructure and performance. The emergence of COVID-19 exemplified the need for adaptability in retail goods supply chains, emphasizing the necessity for responding to external shocks. Methods: The MARLIN (Method wArehouse ResiLience dIstruptioN) method, founded on theories and models of resilience engineering is introduced. MARLIN is a practical tool designed to identify key areas requiring intervention in response to disruptive events. An empirical test was conducted in an Italian warehouse. Results: The conducted test yielded tangible results, demonstrating the efficacy of the method. It successfully pinpointed areas necessitating intervention and identified Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) associated with disruptions. The study not only underscores the importance of data collection but also highlights the often-overlooked significance of warehouse management. Conclusions: The study establishes MARLIN as a valuable asset for stakeholders involved in disruption management. Its application has proven instrumental in recognizing areas of intervention and identifying KPIs related to disruptions. Ongoing research endeavors to broaden its applicability across diverse supply chain scenarios, aiming to enhance situational awareness and enable proactive risk assessment through what-if analysis.
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Parcel Delivery Service on Customer Satisfaction in the Saudi Arabian Logistics Industry: Does the National Culture Make a Difference?
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Logistics 2023, 7(4), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040094 - 06 Dec 2023
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Background: The logistics industry is keen to meet customer expectations, which in turn supports trade by enhancing business competitiveness and promoting economic development. Logistics companies realized that fulfillment of customer needs has a significant effect on their business survival, their sales and ultimately
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Background: The logistics industry is keen to meet customer expectations, which in turn supports trade by enhancing business competitiveness and promoting economic development. Logistics companies realized that fulfillment of customer needs has a significant effect on their business survival, their sales and ultimately their profits. This research analyzes the variables that influence customer satisfaction with parcel delivery services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), particularly the SERVQUAL dimensions: tangibility, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy. The research also examined whether national culture affects customer perceptions of parcel delivery services in KSA or not. Methods: The research collected data using a self-administered survey, which was directed at a sample of customers in the KSA, who had recent experience with parcel delivery services. Results: The results of statistical analysis showed that the best predicators of customer satisfaction are reliability, followed by the dimensions of empathy, then tangibility and finally responsiveness. In addition, the results showed significant differences in customers’ overall satisfaction between Saudis and non-Saudis. Saudis were more satisfied with the service than non-Saudis were. Conclusions: This research showed the key role of national culture in perceiving parcel delivery service quality in KSA. The findings provide important messages to the administrators of the logistics services in KSA, which have become crucial for the Saudi Vision 2030. They need to customize their service according to customer needs and provide regular training for their staff to be supportive, reliable and have the credibility to deliver services as promised.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)
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Modeling Extended Service Quality for Public Transportation in the Post-Pandemic Period: Differentiating between Urban and Rural Areas: A Case Study of Intercity Railway, Thailand
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Logistics 2023, 7(4), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics7040093 - 05 Dec 2023
Abstract
Background: Scholars have indicated differences in the attitudes of urban and non-urban populations, especially after the COVID-19 outbreak, which extend to their needs and expectations regarding rail transport development. The aim of this study is to enhance the quality of train services in
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Background: Scholars have indicated differences in the attitudes of urban and non-urban populations, especially after the COVID-19 outbreak, which extend to their needs and expectations regarding rail transport development. The aim of this study is to enhance the quality of train services in the post-pandemic era, and multigroup analysis will be applied to achieve the difference in area context. Methods: The research data were collected from rail transport users throughout Thailand, consisting of 665 urban and 935 rural users. The questionnaires primarily focused on user expectations regarding rail service quality and travel conditions in the post-pandemic landscape using multigroup confirmatory factor analysis (MCFA). Results: The results unveiled significant variations in user trends and needs across different contexts and areas. In urban settings, there was a notably higher overall service expectation compared to rural areas. Specifically, urban users prioritized factors such as accessibility and service empathy, whereas rural rail users placed greater emphasis on staff quality and reasonable pricing. Conclusions: These findings furnish rail transport service agencies with valuable insights and guidance for comprehending their users’ needs. They can develop appropriate organizational strategies, service quality enhancements, and policy adjustments tailored to the unique demands of urban and rural areas in the post-pandemic era, thereby ensuring sustainability. Additionally, the methodology of multigroup analysis served as a significant scientific contribution; this showed that the statistical analysis of different area contexts in the study should not be ignored.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Transport Systems and New Mobility Services: Challenges and Solutions, 2nd Volume)
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