中文摘要：

第四方物流是一种新的物流外包模式，能够高度整合资源，提供综合的供应链解决方案，引起了学术界和企业界的关注。本文回顾了第四方物流的起源和研究状况．结合物流理论的变革历程以及国内的商业物流发展．阐述了物流模式的演化过程．分析了第四方物流等各种物流模式的含义和区别。研究指出，物流模式的演化使得物流的运作与性质发生了质的变化。物流在这一过程中逐步实现了资源效用和社会分工的优化配置、企业成本中心到利润中心的转型，并从商业的支撑者转为主导者．引领商业发展。

英文摘要：

As a new logistics ontsourcing mode, 4PL （4th party logistics） can highly integrate resources and provide integrated supply chain solutions. Now it has already drawn attentions from researchers and enterprises managers in the field of logistics management. This paper reviews the origin and research situation of 4PL at first. Then based on the evolution of the logistics theory and the logistics practice in China, it mainly expatiates on the evolvement of logistics modes, and concludes the concepts and differences of various logistics modes. The research points out that the evolution of logistics modes changes logistics＂ operation and nature thoroughly. Logistics actualizes the optimal allocation of resource utilities and social division of labors, transforms enterprises＂ cost center to profit center and its role has changed from supporter to leader to guide the business development.