Conceptual frame
Logistics service providers
SCM is broadly defined as an integrative philosophy to manage the total flows of a distribution channel from the suppliers' level to production, distribution and ultimately the end customer. Logistics service providers (LSP) manage, coordinate, and deliver logistics activities on behalf of a shipper (Choy et al., 2006). This task requires, more or less, integration between the LSP and the other parties in the logistic chain. In order to respond to the customers flexibly, it is necessary for the companies in the chain to collaborate and integrate as a whole (Zhang et al., 2006).