Strategies for managing road transportation in the context of global market changes: analysis of the activities of logistics operators

Abstract

The article addresses the strategic management of road freight transportation in the context of global market transformations, digitalization, and increasing environmental requirements. The research is driven by the need for logistics operators to develop adaptive management strategies that ensure competitiveness and operational efficiency in a rapidly changing external environment. The study aims to develop theoretical and methodological foundations and practical recommendations for forming effective road freight management strategies based on a comprehensive analysis of logistics operators' activities.

The methodological basis of the research includes a systematic analysis of scientific sources, expert surveys involving industry specialists, statistical modeling, and performance data analysis from logistics companies. The conceptual model of strategy formation developed by the authors reflects the cyclical interrelationship between environmental analysis, strategic choice, implementation, and performance evaluation.

Key research results include the identification and ranking of global factors impacting logistics operators' activities. According to expert assessments, fuel price fluctuations (9.2/10 points) and environmental requirements (8.7/10 points) have the most significant impact. The authors have developed a classification matrix of management strategies based on two key parameters: innovation level and operational efficiency. This matrix identifies four strategic positions: Market Leaders, Innovative Developments, Efficient Traditionalists, and Outsiders.

A quantitative assessment of the impact of strategic directions on operational performance indicators was conducted. The research demonstrates that AI-powered route optimization reduces transportation costs by 10-15% and improves delivery reliability by 5-7%. The implementation of digital freight platforms decreases costs by 5-10%, while blockchain-based document automation reduces costs by 3-5% and improves operational reliability by 4-6%.

The author has improved the methodological tools for assessing the digital maturity of transport companies and proposed a mechanism for continuous adjustment of strategies based on performance monitoring.

The practical significance of the results is that they enable logistics operators to objectively assess their current strategic position, prioritize technology investments based on quantitative impact assessments, and develop adaptive strategies resilient to global market changes. The implemented measures allow for reducing operational costs, improving service quality, and strengthening competitiveness in international markets.

The conclusions confirm the effectiveness of the integrated approach to road freight management, which combines technological innovations with operational optimization. The proposed models and methodologies can be used by logistics operators to enhance competitiveness under globalization and by government agencies when developing transport infrastructure development programs.

Keywords: road freight management, logistics operators activity analysis, international transport logistics, strategic management, digital transformation, operational efficiency of transport processes, adaptive strategies, technological innovations.