The Impact of Cannibalization as a Reverse Logistics Process on the Public Transport System: Vilnius City Case Study

Background: Cannibalization, defined as the recovery of serviceable components from one vehicle for use in another, is an underexplored reverse logistics practice in public transport maintenance. This study aims to analyze the role of cannibalization in public transport systems and develop a framework for managing it as a controlled maintenance process. Methods: Scientific literature analysis was conducted to examine the theoretical foundations of cannibalization and reverse logistics. A quantitative case study was then performed using a complete fleet census of 628 buses and trolleybuses operated by JSC “Vilniaus viesasis transportas” (VVT) in Vilnius, Lithuania. Fleet data were systematized according to vehicle age, type, operational status, and End-of-Life/End-of-Use (EOL/EOU) status. Results: The analysis showed that 57.5% of the fleet consists of vehicles aged 6-15 years, while 15.9% are older than 20 years. A total of 73 vehicles were classified as EOL/EOU and identified as potential sources of recoverable components. Based on literature review and fleet analysis, a four-tier maintenance decision framework was developed. Conclusions: The proposed framework provides a structured approach for managing cannibalization within public transport maintenance and may support fleet availability under spare-part shortages. Future research should validate the framework using operational performance indicators.