The objective of the conducted research is to respond to the investigative question related to delineating potential areas of 3PL (third-party logistics) activities that could be supported by quantum computing.Design/methodology/approach: This study focuses on the exploration and analysis of literature, utilizing both the SCOPUS database and Google Scholar, to identify potential application areas of quantum computers in the 3PL sector.The literature review is based on a systematic approach that includes defining the aim, selecting, and critically assessing existing materials, with particular focus on digitalization, security of information flow, external transport planning, warehousing, and VAS (Value-Added Services).Findings: The analysis has demonstrated that quantum computers hold the potential to significantly influence 3PL businesses, contributing to innovation and enhancing operational efficiency.Specifically, this technology can revolutionize aspects such as supply chain optimization, data security, warehouse management, and the creation of added value through advanced analytics and personalized services. Research limitations:The study encountered constraints related to access to comprehensive databases, which may have influenced the thoroughness of the literature review.Furthermore, the scarcity of literature focusing directly on the application of quantum computers within the 3PL context indicates a need for additional, more in-depth empirical research in this field.Value of the paper: This paper holds both theoretical and practical value, indicating potential innovations and competitive advantages that can be achieved in the 3PL sector through the application of quantum computers.The paper highlights not only opportunities but also challenges and possible directions for future research, providing a foundation for upcoming research initiatives that may contribute to the development and transformation of operational standards in third-party logistics.This article can inspire future research in the area of using quantum computers in external logistics activities.
The objective of the conducted research is to respond to the investigative question related to delineating potential areas of 3PL (third-party logistics) activities that could be supported by quantum computing.Design/methodology/approach: This study focuses on the exploration and analysis of literature, utilizing both the SCOPUS database and Google Scholar, to identify potential application areas of quantum computers in the 3PL sector.The literature review is based on a systematic approach that includes defining the aim, selecting, and critically assessing existing materials, with particular focus on digitalization, security of information flow, external transport planning, warehousing, and VAS (Value-Added Services).Findings: The analysis has demonstrated that quantum computers hold the potential to significantly influence 3PL businesses, contributing to innovation and enhancing operational efficiency.Specifically, this technology can revolutionize aspects such as supply chain optimization, data security, warehouse management, and the creation of added value through advanced analytics and personalized services. Research limitations:The study encountered constraints related to access to comprehensive databases, which may have influenced the thoroughness of the literature review.Furthermore, the scarcity of literature focusing directly on the application of quantum computers within the 3PL context indicates a need for additional, more in-depth empirical research in this field.Value of the paper: This paper holds both theoretical and practical value, indicating potential innovations and competitive advantages that can be achieved in the 3PL sector through the application of quantum computers.The paper highlights not only opportunities but also challenges and possible directions for future research, providing a foundation for upcoming research initiatives that may contribute to the development and transformation of operational standards in third-party logistics.This article can inspire future research in the area of using quantum computers in external logistics activities.
The rapid evolution of quantum technologies presents transformative opportunities for various industries, including the transport sector. As global supply chains grow increasingly complex and data-driven logistics become central to operational efficiency, quantum computing and quantum communication are emerging as potential enablers of next-generation transport systems. This research explores the intersection of quantum innovation and transportation, with a focus on enhancing efficiency, security, and decision-making processes in logistics and mobility. The study adopts a qualitative methodology grounded in an extensive literature review of scholarly publications, industry reports, and policy papers from the past decade. Sources were selected based on their relevance to quantum applications in transportation, including routing optimization, traffic flow prediction, secure communications, and fleet management. The review framework categorizes insights according to technological readiness, practical implementation, and strategic value in the transport sector. Findings from the literature suggest that quantum computing holds significant promise for solving large-scale optimization problems, such as dynamic route planning and freight allocation, which are currently limited by classical computational methods. Additionally, quantum key distribution (QKD) is highlighted as a secure communication solution for protecting sensitive data in autonomous and connected transport systems. Although real-world applications remain limited, pilot studies and simulations indicate measurable improvements in processing speed and security protocols. This research underscores the potential of quantum technologies to redefine competitive advantage in the transport sector. By integrating quantum solutions into existing digital infrastructure, companies may achieve faster, more secure, and more sustainable transport operations. The findings also call for interdisciplinary collaboration and proactive policy support to bridge the gap between theoretical potential and practical deployment.
Quantum computing presents a transformative opportunity for optimizing supply chain and logistics operations by addressing complex combinatorial challenges beyond the capabilities of classical computing. Traditional supply chain optimization relies on heuristic and mathematical models, which struggle with large-scale problems such as vehicle routing, warehouse management, demand forecasting, and last-mile delivery. Quantum computing, leveraging qubits and principles like superposition and entanglement, enables exponential computational power and efficiency. This paper explores quantum computing's applications in logistics, including quantum annealing for route optimization, fleet management, and supply chain network design. Companies like IBM, Google, and D-Wave are advancing quantum algorithms, with hybrid quantum-classical approaches emerging as practical solutions. While large-scale commercial adoption is still in its infancy, research demonstrates promising results in reducing operational costs, improving sustainability, and enhancing decision-making. The study synthesizes over 80 published works on quantum computing's role in logistics, providing insights into emerging technologies, challenges, and future potential. As the field progresses, early adoption and pilot programs will be crucial for businesses to gain a competitive edge in an increasingly complex global supply chain landscape. Quantum computing has the potential to redefine efficiency, cost reduction, and real-time adaptability in logistics and supply chain management.
Quantum computing is a groundbreaking innovation that can resolve complex supply chain problems that traditional computing techniques are unable to manage. Given a focus on information flow, optimization, and potential future applications, this study explores how supply chain management could utilize quantum computing. The study used a mixed-methods approach, including scenario modeling, case studies of prominent companies, and literature reviews. The study intends to evaluate the function of quantum computing in dynamic route optimization, investigate how it can enhance supply chain resilience, and examine how it could optimize the flow of information for decision-making processes. Findings demonstrate that quantum computing offers unprecedented computational power for scenario analysis and decision-making and operates exceptionally well in activities like dynamic route optimization, parcel packaging, and reorganization during disruptions. For instance, companies like DHL and FedEx utilize quantum systems to improve efficiency substantially. However, constraints like high implementation costs, cybersecurity weaknesses, and technological infancy prevent widespread acceptance. Further research should investigate hybrid solutions that integrate quantum and classical computing while addressing these obstacles. This paper concludes that although quantum computing has the potential to transform supply chains by improving information flow, resilience, and efficiency, its wider adoption will require overcoming current financial and technological challenges.
This study explores the profound impact of integrated quantum computing on the landscape of logistics operations. Investigating the core principles of quantum computing, we unveil its potential applications in addressing intricate challenges such as route optimization, supply chain efficiency, and demand forecasting. The research critically examines existing constraints and ethical considerations associated with quantum computing implementation in logistics. Envisioning future advancements, this study foresees a scenario where quantum technologies act as catalysts for unprecedented efficiency, improved decision-making processes, and a redefined approach to predictive analytics within the logistics industry. The collaborative journey toward quantum integration involves strategic steps, including the development of quantum awareness, the establishment of infrastructure, and the fostering of partnerships between logistics entities and quantum computing providers. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview, guiding logistics professionals toward a quantum future where innovation and ethical standards converge for a transformative leap in operations.
Quantum computing, which has the ability to solve the most challenging logistics and supply chain management problems, is the most fascinating advancement in computation for the ensuing ten years. The current state of quantum computing is reviewed in this study, along with recommendations for further research. The transformational potential of quantum 68 computing is explored in this study within the framework of supply chain management optimization. The necessity for cutting-edge computational tools grows more and more important as supply networks get more complex. With its capacity to analyze huge datasets and resolve challenging optimization issues, quantum computing presents a promising way to transform supply chain operations. This study examines how quantum computing might improve supply chain efficiency, address the complex problems associated with contemporary supply chains, and provide significant value to both enterprises and consumers. First, fundamental ideas related to quantum computing and computers are introduced. The dominant quantum technologies are then described. The third section includes instances of contemporary supply chain management and logistical advancements as well as a study of the quantum sector. Fourth, suggestions for further investigation are given. This review intends to inform and motivate the application of quantum computing to supply chain and logistics optimisation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.
Quantum computing offers transformative potential to solve complex optimisation problems in transportation and logistics, particularly those that involve large combinatorial decision spaces such as vehicle routing, traffic control, and supply chain design. Despite theoretical promise and growing empirical interest, its adoption remains limited. This systematic literature review synthesises fifteen peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025, examining the application of quantum and quantum-inspired methods to transport optimisation. The review identifies five key problem domains (vehicle routing, factory scheduling, network design, traffic operations, and energy management) and categorises the quantum techniques used, including quantum annealing, variational circuits, and digital annealers. Although several studies demonstrate performance gains over classical heuristics, most rely on synthetic datasets, lack statistical robustness, and omit critical operational metrics such as energy consumption and queue latency. Four cross-cutting barriers are identified: hardware limitations, data availability, energy inefficiency, and organisational readiness. The review identifies limited real-world deployment, a lack of standardised benchmarks, and scarce cost–benefit evaluations, highlighting key areas where further empirical work is needed. It concludes with a structured research agenda aimed at bridging the gap between laboratory demonstrations and practical implementation, emphasising the need for pilot trials, open datasets, robust experimental protocols, and interdisciplinary collaboration.