Journal of Consumer Science
Vol. 11 No. 1 (2026): Journal of Consumer Sciences

The Influence of e-WOM on Customer Engagement, Purchase Intention, and Purchase Decision in Online Transportation Services

Muhammad Rahadian Nur Jabbar Rahman (Department of Management, Faculty of Economy and Management, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia)
Jono Mintarto Munandar (Department of Management, Faculty of Economy and Management, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia)
Istiqlaliyah Muflikhati (Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, Faculty of Human Ecology, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Online transport services have significant growth potential in Indonesia. Therefore, online transportation companies need to implement appropriate strategies, such as electronic word of mouth (e-WOM), to seize this opportunity. e-WOM is a crucial factor in increasing customer engagement, interest, and the likelihood of using online transportation services. Purpose: This study aims to analyze the influence of e-WOM on customer engagement, purchase intention, and purchase decision to use online transportation services. Method: The data were collected through questionnaires with 230 respondents, using non-probability, purposive sampling. The criteria included people residing in Jabodetabek, aged 18 or older, who used online transportation services and had seen reviews of such services. The study used SEM-PLS to examine the impact of e-WOM on customer engagement, purchase intention, and the decision to use online transportation services. Findings: The study found that e-WOM usefulness and credibility significantly enhanced e-WOM, which, in turn, positively affected customer engagement, purchase intention, and the decision to use online transportation services. Although customer engagement did not significantly influence purchase intention, purchase intention strongly drove purchase decision. Conclusions: The e-WOM adoption variable was proven to be the dominant factor that significantly influenced, both directly and indirectly, customer engagement, purchase intention, and decision in online transportation services. Social media users accepted information from reviews perceived as credible and useful. Research implication: This study highlighted the importance of content-based marketing strategies and credible, helpful forums, with an emphasis on e-WOM. Therefore, companies should build online communities, integrate e-WOM into their digital marketing strategies, and improve the quality of online transportation services.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jcs

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Consumer Sciences (JCS) focuses on the studies of consumer behavior and family economics. Research findings are expected to provide implication for business community and organizations, public policy, consumer education, consumer empowerment, community, non-government organization ...