The Role of Transport in Reverse Distribution Chains

Abstract

Reverse distribution operations have become significant to the manufacturers in supporting the firms to achieve the circularity of products in the reverse flow chains. There are four main components of the reverse distribution chains; inbound and outbound transportation, collection of returns, centralised returns centres, and recovery process. Transport is essential by reducing the lead time and transportation cost of the used and the recovered products. Therefore, it is pertinent that the manufacturers continue endeavouring for the sustainable transportation process in each of the components to ensure the success of the reverse distribution chains.