The role of the 4PL model in a contemporary supply chain

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to understand the concept of a fourth-party logistics provider and to identify his functions and importance for an organization. Although the concept of fourth-party logistics provider is present in academic researches for a relatively long time, it still remains underestimated. The paper presents a conceptual model that is based on the research of fourth-party logistics provider within the exsisting theorethical and empirical literature. The results have shown that fourth-party logistics provider is not incorporated enough into contemporary supply chain solutions, although a growing demand for it is evident. Future research may be broadened by implementing both qualitative and quantitative approach to evaluate the impact of fourth-party logistics provider on a business performance distinguishing among industries. This paper provides a knowledge-based conceptual framework to understand the value of fourth-party logistics provider inclusion in an organisation supply chain.