CBPM Conference 2026 · Vol. 2026, Issue 1

Construction Materials Transport Vehicle Utilisation Efficiency: A Case Study of Gqeberha

John Smallwood and Sinethemba Sonqwelo

Keywords: Construction, Efficiency, Materials, Transport, Utilisation, Vehicle

Abstract

This study examines the efficiency of construction materials transport vehicle (CMTV) utilisation, with the aim of identifying the principal factors that undermine logistics performance in material delivery and proposing targeted interventions to enhance operational efficiency. The quantitative study entailed an online survey of general contractors and material suppliers, yielding 27 valid responses from an initial sample of 92, which equates to a 29.3% response rate. Findings reveal pervasive systemic inefficiencies in vehicle deployment, including frequent empty return trips, partial loads, delayed deliveries, and prolonged vehicle dwell times factors that contribute to elevated costs, reduced productivity, and increased carbon emissions. Supplier-led deliveries dominate current practices, often resulting in sub-optimal routing and coordination. Respondents highlighted the need for improved communication, scheduling, and coordination, alongside the adoption of real-time tracking, monitoring tools, and enhanced training for logistics personnel. Basic ICT tools such as mobile communication and GPS tracking are relatively well-adopted, while more advanced solutions such as data analytics and route optimisation systems show lower utilisation. The findings suggest that strengthening internal coordination, building staff capacity, and integrating digital logistics technologies within a comprehensive supply-chain framework are essential for sustained improvements in CMTV efficiency. Isolated interventions are unlikely to deliver meaningful gains without alignment across stakeholders.