The Influence of Load Imbalance, Market Structure Distortion, and Logistics Digitalization as Determinants of Truck Transportation Costs Through Supply Chain Collaboration: Empirical Evidence From the Logistics Industry in Indonesia

Abstract

The logistics transportation sector plays a critical role in supporting economic activities; however, the trucking industry in Indonesia continues to face challenges related to high transportation costs caused by load imbalance, market structure distortion, limited digital integration, and weak supply chain coordination. This study aimed to analyze the influence of load imbalance, market structure distortion, and logistics digitalization on truck transportation costs through supply chain collaboration as a mediating variable in the Indonesian logistics industry. The research employed a quantitative approach with an explanatory research design using a cross-sectional method. Data were collected from 203 respondents involved in distribution and transportation activities at PT Putera Sarana Usaha (PSU Expedisi) using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling–Partial Least Squares (SEM–PLS). The findings indicated that logistics digitalization, market structure distortion, load imbalance, and supply chain collaboration significantly influenced truck transportation costs. Logistics digitalization demonstrated the strongest effect on supply chain collaboration (? = 0.844), while supply chain collaboration contributed to reducing load imbalance and improving transportation efficiency. The structural model demonstrated strong predictive capability, with an R² value of 0.737 for truck transportation costs. This study implies that improving trucking efficiency requires integrated digital transformation, stronger collaboration among supply chain actors, reduction of empty backhaul movements, and the development of a more transparent and competitive logistics market structure