This research concerns the reverse logistics systems in ferrous scrap of 12
North American manufacturing plants. It examines the role of purchasing an
d other functions in the reverse logistics system, and assesses the contrib
ution made by the various departments. Purchasing played a significant role
in managing reverse logistics activities at the plants in the study. Volum
e was found to significantly influence strategies and processes used by pla
nts in their reverse logistics systems. A total of six volume-based approac
hes for managing ferrous scrap reverse networks are identified. The implica
tions of each are discussed using case studies to highlight differences amo
ng the strategies. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.