THE IMPACT OF THE LOGISTICS COMPONENT ON THE STORAGE AND TRANSPORTATION OF GRAIN IN UKRAINE

Purpose. The study aims to analyze the impact of the logistical component on grain storage and transportation in Ukraine, considering contemporary challenges in the sector. The research focuses on processes within the grain storage and logistics system, identifying factors directly influencing the grain industry and proposing strategic directions for the sector's development. Methodology. The analysis addresses issues such as uneven distribution of elevator capacities and the blockade of seaports. Optimization mathematical models were employed to assess the profitability of logistics systems, and optimization methods were used to propose strategic solutions. Findings. Key challenges faced by Ukraine's grain sector have been identified, including insufficient elevator capacity, energy deficits, and seaport blockades. The war has caused significant changes in grain flows, leading to new trends in agriculture, particularly in cultivation, storage, and grain export operations. Considering the limited number of elevators, the necessity of developing infrastructure with the use of containers for grain transportation was established. Container-based freight transport is a global trend for moving a wide range of goods. The volume and scale of container transportation across all modes of transport have been steadily increasing for several years. Improving logistics technologies and solutions enables faster delivery with fewer handling operations, directly with the cargo. This minimizes risks related to preserving all consumer properties of the cargo during transportation and ensures a high level of interoperability between different transport modes. Methods for container loading and equipping elevators for handling containers have been described. The advantages and disadvantages of various types of grain loaders were analyzed, and the scale of elevator losses in frontline areas was assessed. Originality. The scientific novelty lies in the development of an optimization mathematical model for evaluating the profitability of logistics systems, representing a novel approach to enhancing the efficiency of grain transportation and the competitiveness of grain exports. The need for establishing a unified information environment has been investigated, which would promote more coordinated and transparent interactions among all participants in the logistics chain. This advancement would ultimately improve the quality and competitiveness of Ukrainian grain in the global market. Practical value. Proposals have been made to modernize outdated elevators to improve energy efficiency, implement automation, and optimize grain transportation by rail.