Optimierung logistischer Hofprozesse durch digitale Hofmanagementsysteme - Analyse und Konzeption am Beispiel eines Paketdienstleisters

Abstract

Parcel logistics in Austria is undergoing a phase of dynamic growth, driven by e-commerce and increasing customer demands for speed, transparency and reliability. This development is placing enormous strain on central hubs, where the arrival, handling and unloading of vehicles must be coordinated in a confined space. The example of the DPD hub shows that limited space, parallel use by several companies and a lack of digital control instruments cause considerable inefficiencies. Uncoordinated parking spaces, manual scheduling and insufficient information flows lead to waiting times, increased manoeuvring efforts and destabilisation of the entire process chain. This highlights the need to digitise yard processes in a targeted manner in order to increase their transparency, predictability and efficiency. The work is clearly structured: first, the theoretical principles of yard management systems, how they work and the challenges they face are presented. This is followed by an analysis of the operational and technical framework conditions, particularly with regard to space management, time slot coordination, system integration and acceptance by employees. In the empirical part, the actual processes of the DPD hub are examined through direct observation and weak points are precisely documented – such as unclear unloading sequences or uncoordinated IT systems. Based on this, target processes are modelled that promise a significant increase in efficiency through digital tools, structured use of parking spaces and optimised unloading sequences. The methodology combines practical process observations with analytical modelling and derives concrete recommendations for action. The analysis makes it clear that significant improvements can be achieved through targeted process optimisation alone, without the immediate introduction of a comprehensive yard management system. Measurements showed that manoeuvring times can be reduced from an average of over 6 minutes to significantly more stable values. FIFO-compliant parking, structured buffer zones and digital support tools enable shorter throughput times and reduce the burden on space. In addition, a central information platform increases transparency for both internal and external stakeholders. The conclusion: digital yard management systems are not only operational tools, but strategic building blocks for competitiveness, adherence to delivery times and sustainability in the CEP industry. The work provides a practiceoriented target concept that can be directly transferred to the everyday operations of parcel service providers.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Matthias Neubauer (Supervisor)