Resilient warehouse supply chains in post‑conflict economies: Evidence on prepositioning, multi‑echelon inventory, and lateral transshipment
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warehouse resilience, post‑conflict supply chains, prepositioning of warehouses, multi‑echelon inventory management, lateral transshipment policies, humanitarian logistics, supply chain recovery
Abstract
Purpose. This paper synthesizes empirical evidence on how to strengthen warehouse-centred supply chains in post-conflict economies facing damaged infrastructure, intermittent access, and volatile demand. Methodology. A systematic review of 15 protocol-verified empirical and simulation studies is conducted, coding contexts, warehouse interventions, and outcomes such as response time, service level/OTIF, inventory stability, delivery days, and unit logistics costs, with limited random-effects aggregation when comparable metrics are available. Results. Robust effects are identified for warehouse prepositioning, temporary or modular depots, lateral transshipment policies, and multi-echelon inventory control, which collectively reduce response times, increase service levels, and stabilise supply with moderate cost impacts. Digital enablers such as offline-capable warehouse management systems and energy‑autonomous facilities further enhance performance under grid and connectivity failures, though quantitative evidence remains sparse. Theoretical contribution. The review integrates the four-R flexibility perspective with the resilience capacities of absorption, adaptation, and recovery, showing how specific warehouse design and control levers operationalise resilience in the recovery phase of humanitarian and essential goods supply chains. Practical implications. The paper proposes a phased implementation roadmap for practitioners in post‑conflict settings, distinguishing quick wins in the first 0–3 months, network reconfiguration over 3–12 months, and longer‑term investments beyond 12 months to embed digital and energy autonomy in warehouse networks.
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 2: Zero Hunger; SDG 3: Good Health and Well‑Being; SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure; SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production; SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
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