Spatial structures and driving factors of express logistics networks between urban agglomerations in China

We use crawler technology to obtain the order-volume data of express logistics transactions in 223*223 cities and 19*19 urban agglomerations, with 51,752,001 items. Using social network analysis and quadratic assignment procedure, this study investigates the spatial structures of express logistics networks and the factors driving networks between 19 urban agglomerations in China. The results revealed that networks are connected through weak ties, and urban agglomerations in East and Central China (e.g. the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei) comprise the network centre, performing resource control and serving as intermediaries in the network. We found that urban agglomerations prefer to produce express logistics links with urban agglomerations with similar geographical locations, high road network accessibility, high logistics network coverage, good integration development, high degree of complementary industrial functions, large differences in economic development, small policy differences and close informatization levels. This study also provides recommendations for policymakers.