The outdoor logistics in wood industry is an interesting research area since many factors need to be taken into consideration for an efficient process. However, little research can be found specifically in term of the outdoor logistics within wood industry. The purpose of this study is to design a model for streamlining outdoor logistics in the wood industry. Additionally, what important factors for more efficient outdoor logistics are also to be investigated. 

According to Institute for Transport Research (2002), the material handling is defined as all physical handling, movement, storage and packaging of materials. To make the study scope clear, the outdoor logistics is specifically defined as the outdoor material handling in this study, and the outdoor refers to the local area outside the production buildings.

A major part of this investigation work has been performed at one case company called Valbo Trä. The research is done through literature review, interviews, site observations at case company, and has generated a broad and deep understanding of the operations at the case company and the theoretical basis for the model development. 

This study shows that the demand for different products is very different as well as the lengths and quantities of the products. Such fluctuating demand generally occurs in the wood industry, not only at the case company. The unpredictability of the demand for raw materials makes it complex for the case company to meet the customer's demands for finished products. On the other hand, the material handling becomes complex when the inventory levels increase. The inventory levels create, among other things, tied up capital, obsolescence, tighter handling space and poorer visibility for the truck drivers. Obsolescence that occurs can be traced to material handling. Damage occurs during internal transport and the wood suffers from damage due to weather conditions during outdoor handling. When handling materials outdoors, there are also risks in the form of obscured visibility during transport with loaders. Violation of speed limits and varying compliance with safety rules also occur. High inventory levels also affect the possibility of applying FIFO.

Flows, obsolescence, and safety have been identified as the most important factors for more efficient outdoor logistics within the wood industry. Based on the identified factors a model could be designed and applicable within the wood industry.