An overview of a multi-criteria decision-making framework for warehouse service provider selection
Published: August 10, 2026
Abstract
This study reviews research on warehouse service provider selection in multimodal transport chains using a multi-criteria decision-making approach. Based on a systematic review of literature concerning warehousing, logistics and third-party logistics providers, warehouse location, and multimodal transport, 121 publications were initially identified, of which 18 were selected for detailed analysis. The findings indicate that provider selection should consider warehouse capacity, infrastructure and multimodal connectivity, service quality and operational efficiency, technological and information capabilities, provider competence and collaboration, and sustainability, safety, and risk. The study integrates these dimensions into six principal criteria groups as a foundation for developing an MCDM evaluation model. The proposed framework supports more comprehensive provider comparison and provides a basis for future empirical testing using methods such as AHP, ANP, BWM, or TOPSIS.
Keywords
multi-criteria decision-makingwarehousing serviceslogistics service providersmultimodal transportprovider selection
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