Third party logistics: a literature review and research agenda

Abstract

PurposeTo provide a taxonomy of third party logistics (3PL) research and, based on that, to develop a research agenda for this field of study.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed 3PL research classification framework is based on a comprehensive literature review, which concentrates on peer‐reviewed journal papers published within the period 1990‐2005. A total of 114 academic sources have been retrieved and analysed in terms of research purpose and nature, method employed, theoretical approach and level of analysis.FindingsThe review reveals that 3PL research is empirical‐descriptive in nature and that it generally lacks a theoretical foundation. Survey research is the dominant method employed, reflecting the positivist research tradition within logistics. It identifies certain knowledge gaps and develops five propositions for future research. It suggests that focus should be directed towards more normative, theory‐driven and qualitative method‐based studies. It also argues that further empirical research in relation to 3PL design/implementation and fourth party logistics services is needed.Originality/valueThis paper fulfils an identified need for a comprehensive classification framework of 3PL studies. It essentially provides both academics and practitioners with a conceptual map of existing 3PL research and also points out opportunities for future research.

Unchained from the chain: Supply management from a logistics service provider perspective

“…resource sets and activities serves to maintain this paradox (cf. Selviaridis and Spring, 2007). However, the way in which these actors handle the effects of the total network of relationships is of basic importance for their strategic edge (Hertz and Alfredsson, 2003).…”

A survey based analysis of IT adoption and 3PLs' performance

“…In fact, there is the need to increase research in this area as stated by Selviaridis and Spring (2007) The main contribution of the paper is twofold. First, the proposed model measures variables in an objective way (e.g.…”

Contract functions in service exchange governance: evidence from logistics outsourcing

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