Humanitarian Logistics, Modal Choice and Logistics Service Quality Interlink

Under standard business conditions, total cost optimisation is the dominant factor for modal choice decisions of logistics service providers, carriers and other shareholders in the supply chains. This optimisation implies a continuous quest of these actors for efficiency and low-cost sources on a global scale. However, in times, when unprecedented disruptions hit supply chains hard, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic situation, it generates an immediate shortage of vital goodsʼ delivery. Accordingly, the relative importance of sourcing and modal choice dynamics change quickly. The authors illustrate this change in a geographically scoped conceptual paper. Additionally, the research study includes a literature review of sourcing and modal choice factors within the scope of humanitarian logistics. Moreover, the authors question the possible shortcomings of measurement tools for logistics service quality in the specific situation of such an emergency. Relevant empirical data supplements the research paper findings and discussions of the stakeholdersʼ mix and positioning regarding their actions in case of global supply chain disruptions with local, regional and local implications. The study outcomes shall serve as an input for future both qualitative and quantitative research in the domain of modal choice and relevant decision making regarding the logistics service quality measurement once global supply chain disruptions occur.