How small-and-medium transportation companies handle asymmetric customer relationships under COVID-19 pandemic: A multi-method study

Abstract The COVID-19 outbreak has created major challenges for transportation companies. Grounded in the dynamic capabilities view theory, this paper adopts a multi-methodological operations management approach to derive scientifically sound insights with regard to handling key customer relationships in the crisis. To be specific, first, qualitative interviews with representatives of small carriers and forwarders as well as an examination of their social media posting are conducted. The qualitative research reveals the customer relationships situation of transportation companies during the COVID-19 pandemic. What specific actions build relational capabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic is uncovered. The research model is then tested based on the survey with one hundred Polish SME carriers. Several insights are generated. First, this study provides evidence that among various available networking routines, companies should concentrate on relationship monitoring, conflict handling, and selective relationship downsizing, while initiating new partnerships does not appear to be beneficial. Second, this study suggests that the positive influence of relational caps on company performance is moderated positively by contracts signed between partners and negatively by the financial debt of focal companies. Finally, this study discusses its results with regard to other studies on business relationships in dramatic environmental changes and highlights the corresponding implications.