Despite the recognised potential of horizontal collaboration in logistics to reduce inefficiencies, and the increasing academic interest in this topic, in practice many initiatives fail. One of the main reasons for this failure is the poor strategy planning and governance organisation. This paper addresses this gap proposing a comprehensive conceptual framework to support the design and implementation of a common strategy for the stakeholders of such partnerships. The research employs qualitative methods, drawing on interviews and the case analysis of existent initiatives. The proposed framework involves the main phases of the strategic formulation, deciding the stakeholder engagement, strategic formulation, operational implementation, and business model elaboration. It serves as a road map for stakeholders to avoid common mistakes and accelerate the deployment of cooperative partnerships.