Characterizing third-party logistics setups in the context of construction

Purpose The use of third-party logistics (TPL) setups in construction has increased but is still a new phenomenon. The purpose was to increase understanding of how structural and management dimensions are related in CLSs by describing how CTPL setups are used. Design/methodology/approach Ten dimensions to describe and structure CLSs were identified from the literature and used to structure a cross-case analysis of 13 Swedish CLSs. Findings The main findings are: (1) there are three typical initiators of CLSs: municipalities, developers and contractors; (2) CLSs are drivers for service differentiation and modularization among TPL providers as construction specific services are required; (3) CLSs play a new role in construction by coordinating logistics activities between the construction project and the vicinity of the site. Research limitations/implications The study is based on 13 cases in the Swedish construction context. Additional studies of CLSs in other countries are needed. Practical implications The ten dimensions can be used as a guide in designing a CLS and in determining the order of design decisions. The identification and structuring of CTPL services also exemplify the variety of service offerings. Originality/value This is one of the first cross-case analyses of CLSs enabling the characterization of CTPL setups. This study identifies how different services included in the setup relate to the roles of SCM and logistics in construction.Funding Agencies|JPI Urban Europe/Swedens Innovation Agency VINNOVAVinnova [2018-02499]; Development Fund of the Swedish Construction Industry, SBUF [13605]; L E Lundberg foundation for Research and Education