Distributionsstrukturens påverkan på logistisk effektivitet : En fallstudie om skillnaderna och samspelet mellan centraliserade och decentraliserade flöden för lokala paket

Sammanfattning

The design of the distribution structure involves a continuous strategic trade-off between the economies of scale offered by centralization and the flexibility and market proximity provided by decentralization. This study examines how the choice of structure affects the logistical efficiency of local parcel flows, in other words, shipments that are both collected and distributed within the same local geographic area. Currently, all local parcels in the studied distribution area are transported to a central sorting terminal before being returned to the local hub for distribution. This generates a significant geographic detour only for the purpose of sorting. The purpose of this study is to analyze how the choice of distribution structure affects the logistical efficiency of local parcels. The study examines the differences and the interplay between centralized and decentralized parcel flows by evaluating a hybrid solution and examining the conditions for a local parcel flow. To achieve thus purpose, qualitative and quantitative methods were combined in a case study. The primary empirical data was obtained through semi-structured interviews with three key individuals from the case company. This was complemented by on-site observations of how parcels were handled during daily operations at the local hub. Additionally, statistics regarding the company’s parcel volumes and official wage statistics were obtained. The complied data was then analyzed by identifying recurring patterns in the interview responses and performing calculations on costs and parcel flows. The study demonstrates that the automated sorting at the centralized terminal is highly time-efficient, whereas a hypothetical local sorting process would require a lot of manual work and take significantly longer. A critical breakpoint is identified regarding the daily volume of local parcels required for a decentralized hybrid solution to successfully reduce fixed transportation costs. If the volume reaches this breakpoint, the results indicate that a net cost saving can be achieved, regardless of whether pre-sorting takes place at parcel agents and corporate companies or not. For parcel volumes below this breakpoint, the hybrid solution instead results in a net loss, as the additional staff costs cannot be offset by reduced transportation expenses. The conclusion demonstrates that the impact of the centralized distribution structure on local parcels is divided. Regarding internal efficiency, the central terminal’s economics of scale, high degree of automation and standardized processes outweigh the disadvantage of local parcels being transported back and forth, which means increased time consumption and environmental impact. Sorting the parcels manually at the local level would instead increase the handling cost per parcel, require additional staff and increase the risk of sorting errors. Regarding external efficiency, the customer is not negatively affected by the centralization, as the transportation and sorting processes take place during evening and night hours, thereby maintaining stable lead times and high delivery precision. In conclusion, the study shows that a local hybrid solution can be hindered by external, physical constraints further up the supply chain. A pronounced lack of space at local parcel agents may prevent the extra material handling required for the solution to be practically possible and economically profitable.