Supply chain disruptions: flexibility measures when encountering capacity problems in a port conflict

Abstract

Purpose

There can be many negative effects from a disruption in a central node of companies' supply chains, such as a port conflict that reduces capacity. Strategies for disruption management include flexibility and redundancy. This paper aims to analyse a supply chain disruption from flexibility and capacity perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was conducted of the supply chain disruption caused by the port conflict in 2016–2017 in Gothenburg, in which the port operated at a reduced capacity. Companies importing and exporting goods, freight forwarders, hauliers, train operators, ports, shipping companies and their agents were interviewed.

Findings

Various capacity problems (ports, links, container chassis, empty containers) were encountered due to the port conflict. Flexibility measures such as node, mode and fleet flexibility can be used in response to changes in capacity. Difficulties with applying flexibility are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

Although based on a Swedish case, findings are relevant for disruptions or other types of disturbances in ports elsewhere and also in other important nodes in companies' supply chains.

Practical implications

Actors influenced by disturbances in a port can increase their understanding of potential capacity problems and flexibility measures. Readiness and timely action are important due to competition regarding capacity.

Originality/value

The implications on the transport network surrounding a port, including many actors, are explained, illustrating how capacity problems propagate, but there is some flexibility to manage the problems.

Citation

Rogerson, S., Svanberg, M. and Santén, V. (2022), "Supply chain disruptions: flexibility measures when encountering capacity problems in a port conflict", The International Journal of Logistics Management, Vol. 33 No. 2, pp. 567-589. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLM-03-2020-0123