Designing a Crowd Local Logistics Network with a Self-collection Approach

Document Type : Production & Operations Management

Authors

1 PhD student, Department of Industrial Engineering, Mazandaran University of Science and Technology, Babol, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Industrial Engineering, Mazandaran University of Science and Technology, Babol, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of Industrial Engineering, Mazandaran University of Science and Technology, Babol, Iran

Abstract

The innovative self-collection service in urban logistics is proposed as an alternative to door-to-door delivery, offering environmental and social benefits. This research aims to investigate the level of awareness among the population regarding the new self-collection service for order deliveries by preparing a questionnaire and conducting interviews with residents of Tehran. It also aims to identify the factors influencing customers' choice of this service and to examine the relationships between these factors using the fuzzy DANP approach. Ultimately, the research seeks to present a mathematical model for covering self-collection centers within an urban logistics network, aiming to minimize the distance traveled by consumers. The study's findings indicate that the awareness of the self-collection service among the population in Iran is very low. However, there is a significant increase in the population's interest in this service when the collection points are located nearby, demonstrating the high potential of this innovative initiative. Furthermore, data analysis reveals that the criteria of 1) proximity of self-collection locations to customers, 2) cost differences between door-to-door delivery and self-collection services, and 3) the quality of services provided at these centers play a crucial role in advancing this new initiative. Finally, the research recommends public awareness and education about the environmental and economic benefits of this new service, mapping consumer purchasing habits, identifying strategic points, providing financial incentives and discounts, and enhancing service quality to increase customer acceptance of self-collection services, which will lead to improved performance of the urban logistics network.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 16 April 2024
  • Revise Date: 03 January 2025
  • Accept Date: 24 January 2025

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