Objective Korean pine nuts are representative high-value forest products in northeastern China, serving both rural prosperity and ecological security. Yet, poor logistics infrastructure and high transportation costs have limited their industrial potential. Existing studies on logistics networks often neglect the unique spatial and environmental conditions of forest regions. There is a need for decision-making tools tailored to the complexity of forest products. We aim to develop a three-stage location framework with spatial adaptation to provide practical solutions for Korean pine nut logistics that balance ecological constraints and economic efficiency.

Method Yichun, the core Korean pine belt, served as the study area. The model was made to self-adjust to local spatial traits. First, a GIS-BWM-WLC method integrated 13 spatial factors to generate a suitability map. Boolean operations were then applied to exclude restricted areas, leaving candidate sites. Second, supply points were set at the geometric centers of pine stands, and their supply volumes were estimated from the Liangshui Nature Reserve yield data. Finally, candidate sites, supply points, roads, and demand were fed to MATLAB’s IOA module to solve the location problem and output the GIS-based visual plan.

Result The framework identified 32 distribution hubs out of 180 candidates, forming a spatial pattern of “high suitability-roadside-into the forest”. All hubs sit in high-suitability zones, meeting cost and capacity requirements. Over 70% follow existing roads, shortening the average haul. Three hubs extend into the main Korean-pine belt, reducing nut loss and expense. The model integrates transport, infrastructure, and production coverage, confirming its accuracy and cost-effectiveness.

Conclusion The proposed “weighted linear combination-yield prediction-intelligent optimization” model is more robust than traditional approaches. It considers both spatial distribution and yield of Korean pine while addressing transport, infrastructure, and service goals. The framework proves effective and feasible for locating hubs, and offers strong logistics support for sustainable industry development. It also offers a readily transferable blueprint for designing logistics networks for other high-value forest products.