TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRINCIPLES APPLIED WITHIN THE FIELD OF ROAD FREIGHT TRANSPORT: A SPECIFIC APPROACH

Purpose – Applying the principles of total quality management within organizations that operate in the road freight transport industry, additionally showcasing the potential effects of this strategic approach on an organization. Methodology/approach – A medium sized road freight transport company operating in Romania was studied. Findings – Total quality management fundamental principles can be applied within the specified field, with favorable consequences in terms of overall organizational performance. Research limitations/implications – The research has been carried out upon studying the practices of a medium organization operating in the field of study. Thus, it is not possible to extrapolate the results unless further research is conducted. Practical implications – Provide a clear understanding of how the fundamental principles of total quality management apply within the specific field and serve as a starting point for organizations in implementing a management system based on total quality. Originality/value – This article presents itself as a starting point in studying total quality transportation applications within small and medium organisations operating in the road freight transport field. In addition, the study addresses the lack of research regarding the Romanian road transport industry.