Title: Decision making for selecting 3PL service provider using three parameter interval grey numbers

Authors: Nitin Kumar Sahu; Saurav Datta; Siba Sankar Mahapatra

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-769008, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-769008, India ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-769008, India

Abstract: Outsourcing logistics functions to third party logistics (3PLs) has been a source of competitive advantage for every enterprise. Most enterprises cite greater flexibility, operational efficiency, improved customer service levels, and a better focus on their core businesses as part of the advantages of engaging the services of 3PLs. Deciding to a explore a third party logistics company is a managerial decision that depends on a variety of factors that may differ from business to business. The decision to outsource certain business functions depend on the company's plans; future objectives, product lines, expansion, acquisitions, etc. In this context, the present work develops a grey-based appraisement module to facilitate decision-making towards selection of 3PL service providers. The theory of three parameter interval grey number has been adopted to aid the said decision cum evaluation problem.

Keywords: third party logistics; 3PL service providers; service provider selection; three parameter interval grey number; decision making; outsourcing decisions.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLSM.2013.052061

International Journal of Logistics Systems and Management, 2013 Vol.14 No.3, pp.261 - 297

Published online: 28 Jun 2013 *

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