Title: Assessing logistics capability for the Australian courier firms

Authors: Michael Wang

Addresses: New Zealand Forest Research Institute, Te Papa Tipu Innovation Park, 49 Sala Street, Rotorua 3010, Private Bag 3020, Rotorua 3046, New Zealand

Abstract: The purpose of the paper is to identify and assess the logistics capability in the Australian courier firms. Logistics capability is an important ability for transport and logistics firms to deliver the value and services to the customers. It may directly influence both firm performance and customers' experiences. An empirically validated measurement model of logistics capability for Australian courier firms is presented in the paper. Empirical data is collected through a web-based survey. According to the factor analysis, the key underlying factors of logistics capability has been identified in the Australian courier firms. They are including operation flexibility-focused capability, innovation-focused capability and process optimisation-focused capability. The results indicate that the Australian courier firms have relatively strong logistics capabilities. The implication of the measurements of logistics capability is not only for further studies, but also it provides practical guidance for policy-making and developing the logistics capability to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. It also contributes to the literature in courier and logistics. Moreover, the findings help both academics and practitioners to gain a better understanding of logistics capability in the courier industry.

Keywords: logistics capability; logistics management; courier; Australia.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLSM.2020.111827

International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management, 2020 Vol.37 No.4, pp.576 - 589

Received: 20 Jan 2019
Accepted: 27 Apr 2019
Published online: 16 Dec 2020 *

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