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
Investigating the Crash Protection Performance of a Medical Carrier Bag for Drone Transport
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010031 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Drone transport regulations in Europe require a crash-protected container (CPC) to be used for the carriage of dangerous goods. With increasing interest in the use of drones for medical logistics, the motivation behind this research was to investigate whether the existing approved
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Background: Drone transport regulations in Europe require a crash-protected container (CPC) to be used for the carriage of dangerous goods. With increasing interest in the use of drones for medical logistics, the motivation behind this research was to investigate whether the existing approved medical carriers could also pass as CPCs. To date, there has been little practical experimentation on or theoretical research into the crash protection performance of medical containers. Methods: Addressing this gap, this paper reports findings from a series of drop test experiments to investigate the crashworthiness of a standard medical carrier bag used by the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK. Th drop tests were performed from heights of up to 122 m using standard medical carriers containing bags of dyed saline to examine the robustness of the carrier and whether it could contain any leakages, a key requirement for transporting dangerous goods. Results: The tests found that the medical carrier failed on some drops, with the zipped lid being identified as the main weakness. Conclusions: A new understanding of the carrier’s terminal velocity, impact acceleration, and failure mechanisms were gained and subsequent strengthening and waterproofing remedial measures recommended. New insights and practical recommendations are provided relating to performing formal drop tests and how to conduct these using a drone.
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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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Exploring the Implementation Challenges of the Electronic Freight Transport Information (eFTI) Regulation: An Empirical Perspective from Greece
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Thomas K. Dasaklis, Evangelia Kopanaki, Panos T. Chountalas, Nikolaos P. Rachaniotis, Theodore G. Voutsinas, Kyriakos Giannakis and Gregory Chondrokoukis
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010030 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: The electronic Freight Transport Information (eFTI) regulation is critical in modernizing freight transport (FT) within the European Union by establishing a framework for the electronic exchange of information. Despite its importance, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the
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Background: The electronic Freight Transport Information (eFTI) regulation is critical in modernizing freight transport (FT) within the European Union by establishing a framework for the electronic exchange of information. Despite its importance, there is a notable gap in the literature regarding the practical implementation challenges, especially from an empirical perspective. Methods: To address this gap, our study utilized a grounded theory approach, conducting interviews with a diverse group of logistics experts from Greece. The selection of experts was strategic to ensure a comprehensive range of knowledge and expertise, including insights at the policy level as well as practical experiences. Results: Our findings highlight several significant challenges in the implementation of eFTI, including the digital skill gap among the workforce, issues with system interoperability, and diverse capacities and resources of companies of different sizes. Economic factors, regulatory frameworks and the necessity for targeted training and leadership support were also identified as crucial for the digital transition. Conclusions: The study shows that uniform eFTI implementation may not work for all organizations, highlighting the necessity for customized strategies that address specific challenges in the FT chain. Our research deepens the understanding of these issues, providing actionable insights for successful eFTI adoption.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart, Agile, Sustainable & Integrated: The Logistics of the Future)
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A Multi-Objective Model for Designing a Sustainable Closed-Loop Supply Chain Logistics Network
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Mojtaba Arab Momeni, Vipul Jain and Mehdi Bagheri
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010029 - 13 Mar 2024
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Background: The growing concern for environmental and social issues has led to a focus on designing sustainable supply chains and increasing industrial responsibility towards society. In this paper, a multi-objective mixed-integer programming model is presented for designing a sustainable closed-loop supply chain.
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Background: The growing concern for environmental and social issues has led to a focus on designing sustainable supply chains and increasing industrial responsibility towards society. In this paper, a multi-objective mixed-integer programming model is presented for designing a sustainable closed-loop supply chain. The model is aimed at the minimization of the total cost with the total used facilities, the negative environmental impacts, and the maximization of the positive social impacts. Methods: The epsilon-constraint method is utilized for solving the model and further extracting the Pareto solutions. Results: The result of the research clearly shows an optimal trade-off between the conflicting objectives, where, by paying more attention to the social and environmental aspects of sustainability, the total costs are increased or by optimizing the number of facilities, a better balance between the dynamics associated with the short-term and long-term goals is reached. The results of the sensitivity analysis also show that increasing the demand of the supply chain has the greatest impact on the supply chain costs compared to other objectives. Conclusions: Consequently, investigating such comprehensive sustainable objectives provides better insights into the impact of design variables on the expectations of stakeholders.
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Open AccessReview
Smart Ports in Industry 4.0: A Systematic Literature Review
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Antonios Paraskevas, Michael Madas, Vasileios Zeimpekis and Konstantinos Fouskas
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010028 - 11 Mar 2024
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Background: Information and communication technologies (ICT) have introduced “smart” concepts across industries, including ports. Smart ports, leveraging IoT, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, are trending in maritime operations. They optimize data for informed decision-making, cutting costs, enhancing efficiency, mitigating risks, and fostering growth.
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Background: Information and communication technologies (ICT) have introduced “smart” concepts across industries, including ports. Smart ports, leveraging IoT, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, are trending in maritime operations. They optimize data for informed decision-making, cutting costs, enhancing efficiency, mitigating risks, and fostering growth. Methods: To consolidate knowledge in this area, we are conducting a systematic literature review and meta-analysis using the PRISMA framework. Our goal is to synthesize existing insights, minimize biases, increase reliability, and effectively communicate our findings. To address the research needs mentioned, the current study focuses on implementing a systematic literature review (SLR). Results: The goals of this review are: (i) to present and describe the main categories and themes within the research topic, and (ii) to identify research gaps that will aid future research. Key findings include the identification and classification of current literature trends in the smart port performance evaluation framework and the examination of fundamental themes discussed within this area of research. Conclusions: In our review, we emphasize the smart port concept, clarifying its common interpretations amid the industry 4.0 revolution. We discuss recent advancements in emerging technologies and identify key challenges driving researchers’ exploration of the evolving smart port landscape.
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Exploring the Challenges of Industry 4.0 Adoption in the FMCG Sector: Implications for Resilient Supply Chain in Emerging Economy
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Md Shihab Shakur, Maishat Lubaba, Binoy Debnath, A. B. M. Mainul Bari and M. Azizur Rahman
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010027 - 05 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) supply chains are experiencing various challenges due to the interactions between consumers and decision-makers during physical distribution, manufacturing, wholesale and retail. One possible strategy to address these challenges for smoothing the supply chain (SC) and logistics operations is
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Background: Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) supply chains are experiencing various challenges due to the interactions between consumers and decision-makers during physical distribution, manufacturing, wholesale and retail. One possible strategy to address these challenges for smoothing the supply chain (SC) and logistics operations is to adopt Industry 4.0 (I4.0) based technologies in the FMCG business processes. In this regard, digitalization and automation of the FMCG supply chain can be strengthened by the alluring properties of I4.0 technologies. Methods: This study identified nine significant challenges through a literature review and expert validation. Later, the challenges were evaluated using a novel multicriteria decision-making (MCDM) framework, the Bayesian best worst method (BWM). Results: The findings indicated that “requirement for substantial investment and resources”, “incompatible technological infrastructure” and “poorly structured value chain” are the most significant challenges to implementing I4.0 in the FMCG industry. Conclusions: The study is expected to significantly contribute to improving the FMCG supply chain’s resilience, sustainability, visibility, traceability and responsiveness. Additionally, the research can provide industrial practitioners valuable insights into implementing I4.0 in FMCG and similar sectors and thus promote SC sustainability and resilience in those industries.
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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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A Closed Queueing Networks Approach for an Optimal Heterogeneous Fleet Size of an Inter-Facility Bulk Material Transfer System
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Mohamed Amjath, Laoucine Kerbache and James MacGregor Smith
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010026 - 04 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: This study addresses optimising fleet size in a system with a heterogeneous truck fleet, aiming to minimise transportation costs in interfacility material transfer operations. Methods: The material transfer process is modelled using a closed queueing network (CQN) that considers heterogeneous nodes and
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Background: This study addresses optimising fleet size in a system with a heterogeneous truck fleet, aiming to minimise transportation costs in interfacility material transfer operations. Methods: The material transfer process is modelled using a closed queueing network (CQN) that considers heterogeneous nodes and customised service times tailored to the unique characteristics of various truck types and their transported materials. The optimisation problem is formulated as a mixed-integer nonlinear programming (MINLP), falling into the NP-Hard, making exact solution computation challenging. A numerical approximation method, a modified sequential quadratic programming (SQP) method coupled with a mean value analysis (MVA) algorithm, is employed to overcome this challenge. Validation is conducted using a discrete event simulation (DES) model. Results: The proposed analytical model tested within a steel manufacturing plant’s material transfer process. The results showed that the analytical model achieved comparable optimisation of the heterogeneous truck fleet size with significantly reduced response times compared to the simulation method. Furthermore, evaluating performance metrics, encompassing response time, utilisation rate, and cycle time, revealed minimal discrepancies between the analytical and the simulation results, approximately ±8%, ±8%, and ±7%, respectively. Conclusions: These findings affirm the presented analytical approach’s robustness in optimising interfacility material transfer operations with heterogeneous truck fleets, demonstrating real-world applications.
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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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Leveraging the Potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area: Logistics Challenges and Development Paths for Future Value Chains in Africa
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Benjamin Nitsche, Henry Kofi Mensah, Frank Straube and Vianney Barigye
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010025 - 29 Feb 2024
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Background: With a rapidly growing young population, the African continent provides a high but barely exploited economic potential. Creating an African free trade zone is one of the African Union’s major initiatives to increase prosperity. Even though the AfCFTA has already come
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Background: With a rapidly growing young population, the African continent provides a high but barely exploited economic potential. Creating an African free trade zone is one of the African Union’s major initiatives to increase prosperity. Even though the AfCFTA has already come into force, its potential has not yet been fully exploited. This study investigates the logistics challenges associated with the AfCFTA and potential solutions and development paths for future value chains. Methods: The study builds upon a two-stage research process. First, applying the Nominal Group Technique with a group of 19 industry experts, current challenges and strategies to deal with them are conducted, and statements about potential development paths emerging from the AfCFTA are synthesized. Second, a questionnaire among additional industry experts is done to assess the results of the first stage. Results: The article sheds light on the barely untapped field of logistics challenges hindering the AfCFTA to leverage its potential. Strategy fields to address current challenges are explained, and the first indications of how the AfCFTA will shape supply chains in the mid-term are outlined. Conclusions: The article underlines the importance of logistics in the development of pan-African value chains and highlights potential development paths that may arise in the medium term. It also emphasizes the growing need for cooperation between politics, business, and research to overcome current logistics challenges and leverage the potential of the AfCFTA.
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Critical Factors Affecting Trust in the Wine Supply Chain in Greece: A Grey DEMATEL Approach
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Eleni-Efthymia Psychogiou and Giannis T. Tsoulfas
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010024 - 26 Feb 2024
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Background: Although trust is a well-studied topic in supply chain management, the case of the wine supply chain has not been adequately investigated. Methods: A hybrid approach combining qualitative and quantitative data analysis was adopted. The research was divided into two
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Background: Although trust is a well-studied topic in supply chain management, the case of the wine supply chain has not been adequately investigated. Methods: A hybrid approach combining qualitative and quantitative data analysis was adopted. The research was divided into two phases: (i) identification of critical factors based on the literature, and (ii) analysis of eight experts’ insights on those factors by employing the grey DEMATEL approach. Results: Fourteen factors that affect trust in the wine supply chain were identified based on the academic literature. From the analysis of the experts’ views, with the use of the grey DEMATEL approach, the factors were classified into two groups. The first group (nine factors) concerns the factors that affect the rest and the second group (five factors) concerns those which are affected by the former factors. Conclusions: The study of trust in the supply chain can be further improved by monitoring the trends in the sector and by engaging a wider audience of stakeholders. This approach can be applied to various regions in order to examine whether the situation is different from country to country. Stakeholders will have the necessary information to support their decisions and prioritize their objectives, aiming at improving the whole supply chain.
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Identifying Key Issues in Integration of Autonomous Ships in Container Ports: A Machine-Learning-Based Systematic Literature Review
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Enna Hirata and Annette Skovsted Hansen
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010023 - 21 Feb 2024
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Background: Autonomous ships have the potential to increase operational efficiency and reduce carbon footprints through technology and innovation. However, there is no comprehensive literature review of all the different types of papers related to autonomous ships, especially with regard to their integration with
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Background: Autonomous ships have the potential to increase operational efficiency and reduce carbon footprints through technology and innovation. However, there is no comprehensive literature review of all the different types of papers related to autonomous ships, especially with regard to their integration with ports. This paper takes a systematic review approach to extract and summarize the main topics related to autonomous ships in the fields of container shipping and port management. Methods: A machine learning method is used to extract the main topics from more than 2000 journal publications indexed in WoS and Scopus. Results: The research findings highlight key issues related to technology, cybersecurity, data governance, regulations, and legal frameworks, providing a different perspective compared to human manual reviews of papers. Conclusions: Our search results confirm several recommendations. First, from a technological perspective, it is advised to increase support for the research and development of autonomous underwater vehicles and unmanned aerial vehicles, establish safety standards, mandate testing of wave model evaluation systems, and promote international standardization. Second, from a cyber–physical systems perspective, efforts should be made to strengthen logistics and supply chains for autonomous ships, establish data governance protocols, enforce strict control over IoT device data, and strengthen cybersecurity measures. Third, from an environmental perspective, measures should be implemented to address the environmental impact of autonomous ships. This can be achieved by promoting international agreements from a global societal standpoint and clarifying the legal framework regarding liability in the event of accidents.
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Functional Model of Supply Chain Waste Reduction and Control Strategies for Retailers—The USA Retail Industry
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Victory Ikpe and Mohammad Shamsuddoha
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010022 - 21 Feb 2024
Abstract
Background: The US retail sector grapples with persistent challenges related to supply chain waste, including inefficiencies, overstocking, and logistical barriers, necessitating targeted reduction strategies to mitigate escalating costs, environmental impacts, and diminished profitability. Methods: This study adopts a qualitative research method that
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Background: The US retail sector grapples with persistent challenges related to supply chain waste, including inefficiencies, overstocking, and logistical barriers, necessitating targeted reduction strategies to mitigate escalating costs, environmental impacts, and diminished profitability. Methods: This study adopts a qualitative research method that draws on secondary data sources such as books, journals, articles, and websites to explore supply chain waste reduction strategies within the US retail industry. The study delineates various supply chain waste types, examines associated challenges and drivers, and proposes a simplified model tailored to the US retail landscape to enhance efficiency and sustainability through waste reduction and control. Results: The findings of this paper underscore the necessity for proactive measures within the US retail sector to minimize supply chain waste, optimize operations, and bolster environmental stewardship. Conclusions: By offering a comprehensive overview actionable insights and proposed reverse logistics model, this study aims to equip US retailers with strategies conducive to sustainable growth and heightened competitiveness while advancing the broader discourse on supply chain efficiency and waste reduction.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)
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Digital Technology 4.0 on Halal Supply Chain: A Systematic Review
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Budi Harsanto, Joval Ifghaniyafi Farras, Egi Arvian Firmansyah, Mahir Pradana and Ardi Apriliadi
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010021 - 18 Feb 2024
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Background: The halal supply chain is a focused type of supply chain that ensures halal products throughout the entire process, from upstream to downstream. This paper aims to identify the innovative digital technology 4.0 utilized within the halal supply chain and understand
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Background: The halal supply chain is a focused type of supply chain that ensures halal products throughout the entire process, from upstream to downstream. This paper aims to identify the innovative digital technology 4.0 utilized within the halal supply chain and understand its impact on firm performance, both financial and non-financial. Methods: A systematic review methodology was employed on the academic database of Scopus, resulting in 70 articles. We analyze the included articles with two main aspects that are of concern in this research, namely what technology is used in certain parts of the supply chain (procurement, manufacturing, distribution, and/or logistics), as well as the impact on firm performance (financial and/or non-financial); Results: Our findings reveal that the technologies widely used include blockchain technology, halal financial technology, and halal traceability system (RFID, IoT). Conclusions: Innovative digital technology has been implemented in the halal supply chain and has affected the firm’s performance both financially and non-financially. Future research is suggested to focus on investigations regarding holistic technology integration, quantitative analysis to measure the specific financial performance of firms adopting digital technologies, and the feasibility and importance of technology adoption for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the halal industry.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Digital Supply Chain 4.0 Transformation)
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The Impact of Green Supply Chain Management on Circular Economy Performance: The Mediating Roles of Green Innovations
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Ayman Bahjat Abdallah, Wafaa Shihadeh Al-Ghwayeen, Esra’a M. Al-Amayreh and Rateb J. Sweis
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010020 - 16 Feb 2024
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Background: This study investigated the impact of green supply chain management (GSCM) on circular economy (CE) performance. The mediating roles of three green innovation types, namely green product innovation, green process innovation, and green management innovation, are also examined. Methods: This
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Background: This study investigated the impact of green supply chain management (GSCM) on circular economy (CE) performance. The mediating roles of three green innovation types, namely green product innovation, green process innovation, and green management innovation, are also examined. Methods: This study’s population comprised all companies in the manufacturing sector in Jordan. A simple random method was applied to gather data from 278 companies. The research model was evaluated in terms of validity and reliability, which were found to be satisfactory. Hayes’s PROCESS macro in IBM SPSS was applied for hypothesis testing. Results: The findings showed that GSCM directly and positively affected CE performance. Moreover, GSCM showed positive impacts on the three types of green innovation. In addition, the three innovation types demonstrated positive impacts on CE performance and proved to positively mediate the GSCM–CE performance relationship. Conclusions: The present study is the first, to the best of our knowledge, to examine the mediating effect of green innovations on the GSCM–CE performance relationship. It is also among the first to examine the impact of GSCM on three different types of green innovation that represent technological and non-technological innovations.
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(This article belongs to the Section Sustainability and Reverse Logistics)
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A Systematic Review of Strategic Supply Chain Challenges and Teaching Strategies
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Jérémie Katembo Kavota, Luc Cassivi and Pierre-Majorique Léger
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010019 - 15 Feb 2024
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Background: This study provides a comprehensive overview of current supply chain challenges and how they are taught within university circles or among supply chain professionals to simulate reality. Methods: The study applied a systematic literature review, using bibliometric co-citation and concept-centered
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Background: This study provides a comprehensive overview of current supply chain challenges and how they are taught within university circles or among supply chain professionals to simulate reality. Methods: The study applied a systematic literature review, using bibliometric co-citation and concept-centered content analysis for a comprehensive review of 118 relevant articles, leading to the identification of critical challenges in modern supply chain management. Results: These challenges include supplier selection and quality, supply chain networks, and sustainable supply chains. Supply chain educators are encouraged to use games that mirror real-world scenarios to teach these challenges. Results from this review underscore that existing games covered supply chain concepts such as the bullwhip effect, collaboration, networks, supplier selection, quality management, humanitarian logistics, sustainability, lean supply chain, Supply Chain 4.0, and perishable goods supply. Conclusions: The study’s contribution is to assist in selecting games tailored to the supply chain specific aspects and to guide developers in creating realistic games that address recent challenges in supply chain management. It recommends a holistic approach to enhance new supply chain game development, drawing from methodologies such as problem-based learning and Lego Serious Play. This multifaceted approach imparts practical knowledge and comprehensive skills for addressing supply chain intricacies in modern business settings.
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The Existence and Uniqueness Conditions for Solving Neutrosophic Differential Equations and Its Consequence on Optimal Order Quantity Strategy
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Alaa Fouad Momena, Rakibul Haque, Mostafijur Rahaman, Soheil Salahshour and Sankar Prasad Mondal
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010018 - 08 Feb 2024
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Background: Neutrosophic logic explicitly quantifies indeterminacy while also maintaining the independence of truth, indeterminacy, and falsity membership functions. This characteristic assumes an imperative part in circumstances, where dealing with contradictory or insufficient data is a necessity. The exploration of differential equations within
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Background: Neutrosophic logic explicitly quantifies indeterminacy while also maintaining the independence of truth, indeterminacy, and falsity membership functions. This characteristic assumes an imperative part in circumstances, where dealing with contradictory or insufficient data is a necessity. The exploration of differential equations within the context of uncertainty has emerged as an evolving area of research. Methods: the solvability conditions for the first-order linear neutrosophic differential equation are proposed in this study. This study also demonstrates both the existence and uniqueness of a solution to the neutrosophic differential equation, followed by a concise expression of the solution using generalized neutrosophic derivative. As an application of the first-order neutrosophic differential equation, we discussed an economic lot sizing model in a neutrosophic environment. Results: This study finds the conditions for the existing solution of a first-order neutrosophic differential equation. Through the numerical simulation, this study also finds that the neutrosophic differential equation approach is much better for handling uncertainty involved in inventory control problems. Conclusions: This article serves as an introductory exploration of differential equation principles and their application within a neutrosophic environment. This approach can be used in any operation research or decision-making scenarios to remove uncertainty and attain better outcomes.
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Key Factors Shaping Green Logistics in Thailand’s Auto Industry: An Application of Structural Equation Modeling
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Wuttichai Youngswaing, Sajjakaj Jomnonkwao, Ekkapong Cheunkamon and Vatanavongs Ratanavaraha
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010017 - 08 Feb 2024
Abstract
Background: Environmental responsibility is a critical focus in business and production. International partners have urged Thai businesses to adhere to global standards in environmental and social accountability. Green logistics management focuses on minimizing costs and boosting competitive efficiency in the industrial sector,
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Background: Environmental responsibility is a critical focus in business and production. International partners have urged Thai businesses to adhere to global standards in environmental and social accountability. Green logistics management focuses on minimizing costs and boosting competitive efficiency in the industrial sector, while also promoting environmental protection. This study investigates the factors influencing green logistics in the motor vehicle industry. Methods: A self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection from 1638 participants. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were employed to identify causal links impacting green logistics effectiveness. Results: Findings indicate that government and organizational environmental policies, a company’s financial ability to implement green initiatives, commitment to eco-friendly investment, and public environmental attitudes significantly and directly affect the efficiency of green logistics. Conclusions: This research provides valuable insights for car manufacturers into key factors in green logistics management. These insights can help in developing strategic plans to achieve environmental sustainability in the context of future market competition.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Logistics in the New Era)
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Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Other Industry 4.0 Technologies in Spare Parts Warehousing in the Oil and Gas Industry: A Systematic Literature Review
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Natalia Khan, Wei Deng Solvang and Hao Yu
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010016 - 06 Feb 2024
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Background: Spare parts warehousing in the oil and gas industry is essential for offshore production. With the introduction of Industry 4.0 and its subsequent technological tools, new functions are enabled in industrial logistics activities. Efficiency, visibility, optimization, and productivity are often mentioned as
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Background: Spare parts warehousing in the oil and gas industry is essential for offshore production. With the introduction of Industry 4.0 and its subsequent technological tools, new functions are enabled in industrial logistics activities. Efficiency, visibility, optimization, and productivity are often mentioned as benefits of successful Industry 4.0 technology implementation in logistics activities. In this paper, the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) in spare parts warehousing in the oil and gas industry is studied. Method: 133 peer-reviewed journal publications indexed in Scopus and Web of Science are analyzed in a systematic literature review. The review is structured as frequency and content analysis. Aim: As there is limited research on this specific topic, the aim is for this paper to be a theoretical foundation that assists the industry with future solutions. Results: The list of benefits of implementation gathered from the literature is comprehensive. However, the list of challenges is particularly pertinent to the oil and gas industry and indicates a strong inclination towards limited and controlled implementation of some technologies. The safety demands of the industry mean there are many limitations to implementation currently. Conclusions: This paper reflects on the results, identifies research gaps, and gives proposals for future research.
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Social Network Analysis: Applications and New Metrics for Supply Chain Management—A Literature Review
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Ana Isabel Bento, Carla Cruz, Gabriela Fernandes and Luís Miguel D. F. Ferreira
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010015 - 06 Feb 2024
Abstract
Background: Supply chains, characterized by complexity and sensitivity, require continuous mapping to address challenges, particularly disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, Social Network Analysis (SNA) has proven valuable in analyzing how actors in a network connect and create interdependencies. However,
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Background: Supply chains, characterized by complexity and sensitivity, require continuous mapping to address challenges, particularly disruptions like the COVID-19 pandemic. In this context, Social Network Analysis (SNA) has proven valuable in analyzing how actors in a network connect and create interdependencies. However, some studies suggest that the SNA literature needs to embrace new fields of application and develop innovative metrics. Methods: The aim of this study is to clarify the role and contribution of SNA when characterizing and understanding the challenges of contemporary supply chains. A literature review was conducted to achieve this. Results: The results reveal that SNA has been applied in a wide variety of areas (e.g., manufacturing and construction sectors), with an emerging application in the tertiary sector. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that metrics related to the network and to nodes have been used repeatedly, highlighting the need for new supply-chain-related metrics, such as the novel concept of semi-directedness. Conclusions: Despite the versatility of SNA, some aspects may limit its application to supply chain management, including shortcomings in data acquisition and the fact that SNA only allows for the visualization of network configurations, thus preventing the capture of nuances that characterize the relationships between the actors involved.
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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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A Bayesian Optimization Approach for Tuning a Grouping Genetic Algorithm for Solving Practically Oriented Pickup and Delivery Problems
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Cornelius Rüther and Julia Rieck
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010014 - 04 Feb 2024
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Background: The Multi Depot Pickup and Delivery Problem with Time Windows and Heterogeneous Vehicle Fleets (MDPDPTWHV) is a strongly practically oriented routing problem with many real-world constraints. Due to its complexity, solution approaches with sufficiently good quality ideally contain several operators with
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Background: The Multi Depot Pickup and Delivery Problem with Time Windows and Heterogeneous Vehicle Fleets (MDPDPTWHV) is a strongly practically oriented routing problem with many real-world constraints. Due to its complexity, solution approaches with sufficiently good quality ideally contain several operators with certain probabilities.Thus, automatically selecting the best parameter configurations enhances the overall solution quality. Methods: To solve the MDPDPTWHV, we present a Grouping Genetic Algorithm (GGA) framework with several operators and population management variants. A Bayesian Optimization (BO) approach is introduced to optimize the GGA’s parameter configuration. The parameter tuning is evaluated on five data sets which differ in several structural characteristics and contain 1200 problem instances. The outcomes of the parameter-tuned GGA are compared to both the initial GGA parameter configuration and a state-of-the-art Adaptive Large Neighborhood Search (ALNS). Results: The presented GGA framework achieves a better solution quality than the ALNS, even for the initial parameter configuration used. The mean value of the relative error is less than 0.9% and its standard deviation is less than 1.31% for every problem class. For the ALNS, these values are up to three times higher and the GGA is up to 38% faster than the ALNS. Conclusions: It is shown that the BO, as a parameter tuning approach, is a good choice in improving the performance of the considered meta-heuristic over all instances in each data set. In addition, the best parameter configuration per problem class with the same characteristics is able to improve both the frequency of finding the best solution, as well as the relative error to this solution, significantly.
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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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Investigating the Impact of Completion Time and Perceived Workload in Pickers-to-Parts Order-Picking Technologies: Evidence from Laboratory Experiments
by
Nikolaos Chondromatidis, Anastasios Gialos, Vasileios Zeimpekis and Michael Madas
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010013 - 30 Jan 2024
Abstract
Background: Despite the general impression that digital order-picking supportive technologies can manage a series of emerging challenges, there is still a very limited amount of research concerning the implementation and evaluation of such technologies in manual picker-to-goods order-picking systems. Therefore, this paper aims
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Background: Despite the general impression that digital order-picking supportive technologies can manage a series of emerging challenges, there is still a very limited amount of research concerning the implementation and evaluation of such technologies in manual picker-to-goods order-picking systems. Therefore, this paper aims to evaluate the performance of three alternative picker-to-goods technologies (i.e., Pick-by-Radio Frequency (RF) Scanner, Pick-to-light, and Pick-by-vision) in terms of completion time and perceived workload. Methods: The Design of Experiments (DoE) methodology is adopted to investigate order-picking technologies in terms of completion time. More specifically, a full factorial design has been used (23 × 3 full factorial design) for the assessment of the aforementioned order-picking technologies via laboratory testing. Furthermore, for the comparative assessment of the reviewed order-picking technologies in terms of workload, the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX) is embraced by system users. Results: The results reveal that the best picker-to-goods technology in terms of order-picking completion time and perceived workload under certain laboratory setup is light picking when combined with few items per order line and many order lines per order. Conclusion: The paper successfully identified the best picker-to-goods technology, however it is important to mention that the adoption of such order-picking technology implies certain managerial implications that include training programs for employees to ensure they are proficient in using such technologies, upfront costs for purchasing and implementing the order picking system, and adjustments to existing workflows.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart, Agile, Sustainable & Integrated: The Logistics of the Future)
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Selecting Indicators to Assess the Sustainability of Urban Freight Transport Using a Multi-Criteria Analysis
by
Hana Ayadi, Mounir Benaissa, Nadia Hamani and Lyes Kermad
Logistics 2024, 8(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/logistics8010012 - 17 Jan 2024
Cited by 1
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Background: Urban freight transport has recently garnered significant attention from both professionals and academics due to its pivotal role in fostering economic and social development. Despite notable progress, this sector faces challenges that hinder its long-term sustainability. Addressing these issues and ensuring the
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Background: Urban freight transport has recently garnered significant attention from both professionals and academics due to its pivotal role in fostering economic and social development. Despite notable progress, this sector faces challenges that hinder its long-term sustainability. Addressing these issues and ensuring the lasting sustainability of urban freight transport require a thorough assessment and monitoring process utilizing specific indicators. Methods: This paper introduces a set of indicators developed using a three-step methodology aimed at assessing the sustainability progress of urban freight transport. Initially, we present a long list of indicators drawn from the existing literature. Subsequently, we consider five essential properties: achievability, data availability, predictability, relevance, and comprehensibility. Lastly, we apply a multi-criteria analysis methodology that utilizes these properties to assess the long lists encountered during the selection process. The chosen indicators are those that do not register a value of “0” for any of the specified properties. To enhance reliability, the indicators are collaboratively identified by a minimum of two experts. Results: By carefully selecting 18 indicators based on five sustainability dimensions (economic, environmental, social/societal, political, and spatial), our approach ensures a robust evaluation framework. Conclusions: These indicators serve as valuable tools for stakeholders in comprehensively evaluating the sustainability aspects of urban freight transport.
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