Defining and Managing KPIs for Logistics Optimization: A Critical Analysis of Container Utilization Rate, Cost per Transported Unit, and GHG Emissions
Defining and Managing KPIs for Logistics Optimization: A Critical Analysis of Container Utilization Rate, Cost per Transported Unit, and GHG Emissions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51473/rcmos.v1i1.2025.1421Keywords:
logistics; KPIs; container; logistics costs; emissions; GHG.Abstract
This article discusses the design and governance of key performance indicators (KPIs) in intermodal logistics operations, focusing on three key metrics: container utilization rate, cost per unit transported, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. A framework is proposed that integrates rigorous operational definition, data standardization, collection methods, and managerial use anchored in trade-offs between efficiency, resilience, and sustainability. The analysis articulates literature on operations management, transportation economics, and carbon accounting, highlighting how seemingly technical choices—such as denominators, measurement windows, cargo mix, and emissions scopes—alter the performance narrative and capital allocation (CHRISTOPHER, 2016; CHOPRA; MEINDL, 2016; UNCTAD, 2020; WORLD BANK, 2020; GHG PROTOCOL, 2011; SMART FREIGHT CENTRE, 2019).
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ivan de Matos (Autor)
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