Measurement and spatial and temporal characterization of logistics efficiency--Based on a three-stage DEA model

The logistics industry is an essential component of economic and social development. Enhancing its efficiency contributes to national economic progress. However, the sector faces challenges such as high costs and pollution. This paper conducts an empirical study on the logistics efficiency of 30 Chinese provinces (excluding Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region) from 2004 to 2021 using a three-stage DEA model. Findings reveal that before adjustment, five provinces, including Beijing and Shanghai, were on the efficiency frontier, reduced to three after adjustment. Other provinces exhibit room for improved logistics efficiency, particularly in addressing cost and pollution issues. The key to enhancing efficiency lies in technical and scale efficiency adjustments. External environmental factors significantly influence logistics efficiency; social retail goods consumption positively correlates, while Gross Regional Product negatively correlates. Overall, China's logistics efficiency displays an upward trend but with notable regional disparities, indicating higher efficiency in the eastern region and lower efficiency in central and western regions, resulting in an overall "high in the east, low in the west" pattern.