A friend of mine went for an interview and was asked to describe the various logistics functions in a clear and simple way. He told me he didn't really know what to say. So he called me, I explained and he said the next time he'd call me before going for an interview. And today, many of our young brothers are unaware of the functions of logistics and are confused with the objectives of logistics. So I'm making a small contribution to finish, and I hope it will help.
#What are the key logistics functions?
1-Transport :
Transportation is one of the key functions of logistics. It encompasses the physical movement of goods from one place to another, whether by land, sea, air or rail. The choice of the appropriate mode of transport depends on factors such as distance, the nature of the goods, delivery times and costs.
2- Warehousing :
Warehousing plays an essential role in logistics, providing secure storage facilities for goods. It enables products to be held pending delivery, inventory to be managed and orders to be prepared. Modern warehouses are equipped with advanced technologies such as automated inventory management systems and real-time tracking solutions.
3- Inventory management:
Inventory management is a key logistics function, maintaining a balance between supply and demand. It involves planning optimal stock levels to avoid stock-outs or overstocking. Effective inventory management helps optimize costs, reduce delivery times and meet customer needs efficiently.
4- Packaging and labelling:
Packaging and labeling are important logistics functions, as they help to prepare products for transport and to identify them accurately. Proper packaging protects goods from damage during transit, while accurate labeling facilitates product identification and tracking throughout the supply chain.
5- Order processing:
Order processing involves receiving, checking, preparing and dispatching customer orders. This logistics function ensures that ordered products are delivered on time and in accordance with specified requirements. Efficient order processing systems help improve customer satisfaction and maintain a good business reputation.
6- Reverse logistics :
Reverse logistics refers to the management of product returns, be they customer returns, product recalls or rejects of non-conforming goods. It involves the collection, sorting, repair, repackaging or disposal of returned products. Well-managed reverse logistics help to reduce costs, minimize environmental impact and maintain customer satisfaction.
These key logistics functions are interconnected and must be managed in a coordinated way to ensure the smooth flow of goods and services throughout the supply chain.
Jean Luc Kouadio
Passionate about logistics
Nine years of professional experience
Looking for a job
Danone Marie Danielle Achi Expat-Dakar.com PETROCI Perseus Mining Limited David ALLIALI Charles Désiré BOETE Eni Endeavour Mining Africa Global Logistics
Turner & Townsend - logistics
1moGreat article Rich! I too entered the industry by ‘mistake’ but love it and wouldn’t want to do anything else. We are definitely a necessary evil! Without logistics business doesn’t function.