Analysis and Classification of Possible Schemes for Consolidated Delivery of LTL Cargo

Abstract

Modern trends in the development of logistics allow us to speak about a significant number of LTL (Less Truck Load) cargo shipments, and the dynamics of demand for such transportation is positive. Thus, the transportation of small cargo (up to 5 tons) should be theoretically and methodically procured, taking into account modern technologies for building efficient supply chains. One of the methods to increase the efficiency of LTL cargo transportation is the use of consolidation technology. The main advantage of consolidated transportation of small consignments is associated with the “economies of scale”, which allows to reduce the transportation cost of a consolidated consignment by replacing several vehicles of small and medium carrying capacity with a significantly smaller number of heavy vehicles. Attention is focused on the efficiency of consolidated LTL cargo transportation in terms of impact on the environment and social life of the population. Thus, consolidation helps to reduce the total amount of harmful emissions into the atmosphere, minimizing air pollution, as well as reducing the impact on the logistics infrastructure, including traffic congestion. The purpose of the article is to analyze possible schemes for the delivery of LTL cargo, with particular attention to the possibility of consolidation and assessment of its advantages and disadvantages, as well as the formulation of classification features and types of LTL delivery schemes. The article analyzes the methods for forecasting the demand for transportation between regions (territorial zones). An assessment of the demand for LTL cargo transportation between regions of Ukraine was made based on the platforms lardi-trans.com and della.ua. The advantages, limitations and additional costs associated with the use of consolidation centers for the transportation of LTL cargo are analyzed. The main attention is paid to the basic types of transport schemes that can be used for interaction between shippers and consignees of LTL cargo. The classification features of possible schemes and types of LTL cargo delivery schemes with and without consolidation have been determined. Accordingly, a comprehensive classification of LTL cargo delivery schemes has been proposed. Possible LTL delivery schemes are analyzed according to the proposed classification criteria. The LTL cargo delivery schemes outlined in the article allow logistician to analyze the existing options and choose the most rational one in certain conditions.