Analysis of transport mode selection problem with integrated multi-criteria decision making and an application

As a result of increasing globalization with the rapid progress of technology, transportation of raw material, product or service from its origin of point to the final consumer with the most economical, fast and the safest way has gained great importance for businesses. Because of the low cost (labor, energy, raw material, etc.) opportunities, enterprises make their production in different countries and also the fact that working with a large number of suppliers, the collection of products among the suppliers and the timely and optimal delivery of them in the production centers increases the importance of transportation from logistics activities. It is very important to choose the mode of transportation that will provide quality service at the lowest cost for a route determined in transportation. Because each type of transportation has advantages over the other and additional costs. Businesses have to evaluate multiple criteria and alternatives together when selecting the most appropriate transport mode. This evaluation consists of a complex process that requires many variables to be analyzed simultaneously. In this study, transportation mode selection problem of a logistics company operating in Kayseri province and exporting is discussed. In the first chapter, the definition, types and transportation modes of logistics are given. In the second section, multi-criteria decision-making concept, its methods and transportation mode selection are explained. In the third and last chapter, the through a literature review and interview with the decision makers, who are experts in their field, thirteen criteria have identified and four alternatives as a result of the transport mode selection problem. In order to solve the problem, the most appropriate alternative was chosen by evaluating the importance of the criteria and the WASPAS method with the Best - Worst method. Keywords: Carrying Mode Selection, Multi Criteria Decision Making, Best - Worst Method, WASPAS.