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Supply Chain Glossary & Logistics Terminology

This resource is your comprehensive guide to terminology used in the supply chain and logistics industry. We cover everything from fundamental concepts to emerging technologies, making complex supply chain terms accessible to both newcomers and seasoned professionals alike. Each entry includes clear definitions and practical examples, helping you better understand how these concepts apply in real-world operations.

We hope this glossary will help you navigate the evolving landscape of global supply chain management.

Terms and Definitions

3PL (Third-Party Logistics)

3PL (Third-Party Logistics): A service where a company outsources logistics operations like transportation, warehousing, and distribution to an external provider to streamline its supply chain.

Example:

A medium-sized furniture retailer outsources all their warehousing and delivery operations to a 3PL provider, who manages their inventory, handles customer deliveries, and manages returns processing

Service Providers

Delivery

Returns

Storage

No items found.

4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics)

4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics): A company that manages all parts of the supply chain for a business, working with 3PL providers (who handle transportation and warehousing). Unlike 3PLs, 4PLs don’t own any trucks or warehouses but act as the main organizer to oversee everything.

Example:

A global electronics manufacturer uses a 4PL to manage their entire supply chain network, including coordinating multiple 3PLs across different regions, optimizing transportation routes, and managing supplier relationships

Service Providers

Delivery

Manufacturing

Planning

Returns

Sourcing

No items found.

5G in Supply Chain

Implementation of 5G networks to enable faster, more reliable supply chain communications and IoT connectivity.

Example:

An automated warehouse facility implements 5G to connect hundreds of IoT sensors and autonomous robots, enabling real-time tracking and coordination of inventory movements with minimal latency

Technology

Delivery

Manufacturing

Storage

No items found.

API (Application Programming Interface)

A set of protocols and tools that allow different software applications to communicate with each other, essential for modern logistics and supply chain management.

Example:

A distribution center integrates their warehouse management system with carriers' systems via APIs, automatically exchanging real-time shipping updates and delivery confirmations

Technology

Delivery

Planning

Returns

Multimodal Order Flows

Integrations & App Connectivity

API Economy

Ecosystem of APIs enabling seamless integration between different supply chain systems and partners.

Example:

A network of manufacturers, suppliers, and logistics providers share real-time inventory and shipping data through connected APIs, enabling automated order fulfillment and delivery tracking

Technology

Delivery

Manufacturing

Planning

Sourcing

No items found.

Accessorial Charges

Extra fees added by carriers for services beyond standard shipping, such as liftgate service, inside delivery, storage, or fuel surcharges. These charges cover additional tasks required to complete a shipment, often customized to meet specific delivery needs.

Example:

A home appliance delivery service charges additional fees for installation, stair carries, and weekend delivery times, clearly outlining these charges in their rate schedule

Commercial Terms

Delivery

Returns

No items found.

Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS)

A software-based system that helps businesses plan production and logistics, aligning manufacturing schedules with distribution needs to optimize supply chain efficiency.

Example:

A food manufacturer uses APS software to coordinate production schedules across multiple facilities, accounting for ingredient availability, equipment maintenance, and delivery schedules

Planning & Operations

Delivery

Manufacturing

Planning

No items found.

Advanced Shipping Notice (ASN)

An electronic notification sent by a supplier to a buyer before a shipment, providing details about the contents, packaging, and expected delivery time of the goods.

Example:

A clothing distributor sends detailed electronic notices to retail stores before shipments arrive, including SKU numbers, quantities, and expected arrival times, allowing stores to plan receiving operations

Technology

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Aggregate Shipment

The combination of several smaller shipments into one larger shipment to reduce shipping costs and improve delivery efficiency by maximizing cargo space.

Example:

A chemical supplier combines orders from multiple customers in the same region into one truck shipment, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact

Operations

Delivery

No items found.

Air Freight

The transportation of goods by air, often used for high-value or time-sensitive shipments that require faster delivery than sea or ground transport.

Example:

A medical device manufacturer ships urgent surgical equipment from their factory to hospitals using air freight to ensure next-day delivery

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Air Waybill (AWB)

A legal document issued by an airline to a shipper, outlining the details of an air freight shipment, including terms, conditions, and a receipt for the goods.

Example:

An agricultural exporter uses air waybills to track and document international shipments of perishable fruits, ensuring proper handling and customs clearance

Documentation

Delivery

No items found.

All-Risk Insurance

Comprehensive insurance coverage that protects goods in transit from any kind of loss or damage, except for specific exclusions like war or natural disasters.

Example:

A semiconductor manufacturer purchases comprehensive insurance coverage for their high-value chip shipments, protecting against theft, damage, and natural disasters during transit

Risk Management

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

Artificial Intelligence in Logistics

The use of AI technologies to optimize logistics operations, including predictive maintenance, route optimization, and demand forecasting.

Example:

A large distribution center uses AI to predict optimal picking routes, staffing needs, and maintenance schedules, reducing operational costs by 15%

Technology

Delivery

Storage

Shyftbase AI

Asset-Based Carrier

A transportation provider that owns and operates its own fleet of vehicles, such as trucks, planes, or ships, as opposed to non-asset-based carriers who contract with others.

Example:

A regional trucking company owns and operates its own fleet of 200 trucks, providing dedicated shipping services to manufacturers in the automotive industry

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Augmented Reality in Logistics

Use of AR technology to enhance warehouse operations, picking, and maintenance activities.

Example:

Warehouse workers use AR glasses to identify optimal picking routes and locate items, increasing accuracy and reducing training time

Technology

Storage

No items found.

Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV)

A self-operating robot used in warehouses or manufacturing to move materials without human intervention, typically following markers or sensors for navigation.

Example:

A manufacturing facility uses AGVs to transport raw materials from receiving to production lines and finished goods to the shipping area, reducing manual handling

Technology

Manufacturing

Storage

No items found.

Backhaul

The return trip of a transport vehicle after delivering goods, often carrying another shipment to avoid an empty return and improve cost efficiency.

Example:

A produce carrier delivers fresh vegetables to urban grocery stores and picks up empty pallets and packaging materials for return to distribution centers on the return trip

Transportation

Delivery

Returns

No items found.

Barge

A flat-bottomed vessel used to transport bulk goods, typically on inland waterways like rivers and canals, often used for large, heavy cargo.

Example:

A steel manufacturer uses river barges to transport heavy raw materials from coastal ports to inland manufacturing facilities, reducing transportation costs

Transportation

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

Batch Picking

A warehouse picking method where multiple orders are gathered simultaneously to improve efficiency and reduce travel time.

Example:

A cosmetics distributor organizes picking operations to collect items for multiple orders simultaneously, grouping orders by zones to improve efficiency

Operations

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Bill of Entry

A legal document submitted to customs by importers to declare the goods being brought into the country, providing details like value, quantity, and description.

Example:

An electronics importer files detailed documentation with customs authorities for incoming shipments of components, including values, quantities, and duty calculations

Documentation

Sourcing

No items found.

Bill of Lading (BOL)

A legal contract between a shipper and a carrier, detailing the goods being transported, terms of shipment, and serving as a receipt for the cargo.

Example:

A textile manufacturer ships finished fabrics across state lines, using BOLs to document the quantity, type, and destination of each shipment, serving as both a receipt and contract

Documentation

Delivery

No items found.

Blockchain in Logistics

The use of blockchain technology to improve transparency and security in logistics by creating a decentralized digital ledger for tracking shipments and transactions.

Example:

A seafood supplier uses blockchain to track fish from catch to restaurant, recording temperature data and chain of custody at each handoff point to ensure food safety

Technology

Delivery

Sourcing

Storage

No items found.

Blockchain in Supply Chain

The use of distributed ledger technology to track and verify transactions and movements throughout the supply chain, enhancing transparency and security.

Example:

A pharmaceutical manufacturer implements blockchain to track raw materials through production and distribution, ensuring authenticity and enabling rapid recall if needed

Technology

Delivery

Manufacturing

Sourcing

No items found.

Bonded Warehouse

A secure warehouse under customs supervision where imported goods can be stored without paying duties until they are moved for domestic use or export.

Example:

An wine importer stores imported products in a bonded warehouse, deferring duty payments until the wine is distributed to local retailers

Facilities

Storage

No items found.

Break Bulk

The process of transporting cargo individually, rather than in containers, typically for large, heavy, or oversized goods that can't fit in standard containers.

Example:

A construction equipment manufacturer ships large machinery pieces individually rather than in containers, using specialized handling equipment at the port

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Bulk Cargo

Unpackaged goods shipped in large quantities, such as grain, coal, or oil, typically loaded directly into a vessel’s cargo hold without individual containers.

Example:

A grain supplier transports wheat directly in a ship's hold without packaging, maximizing space efficiency for large-volume shipments

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Bulk Carrier

A type of ship designed specifically to transport large quantities of unpackaged bulk cargo, such as grain, coal, or oil, in its cargo holds.

Example:

A mining company uses specialized ships to transport iron ore from mining sites to steel manufacturing facilities

Transportation

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

Business Continuity Planning

The process of creating systems of prevention and recovery to deal with potential supply chain disruptions, including disaster recovery and crisis management.

Example:

A medical supplies manufacturer develops backup plans for critical operations, including alternate suppliers and transportation routes during natural disasters

Risk Management

Delivery

Manufacturing

Planning

Sourcing

Uptime / Downtime

Timeline to Deployment

Analytics

C-TPAT (Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism)

A U.S. Customs program where companies voluntarily work to improve their supply chain security, in exchange for reduced customs inspections and faster border clearance.

Example:

A auto parts manufacturer joins C-TPAT to expedite border crossings, implementing enhanced security measures throughout their supply chain

Security

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

CFS (Container Freight Station)

A facility where cargo is loaded or unloaded from shipping containers, often used to consolidate or deconsolidate shipments before further transport.

Example:

A freight station consolidates multiple small shipments into full containers for international export, providing efficient handling for small exporters

Facilities

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight)

An international trade term where the seller covers the cost, insurance, and freight to deliver goods to the buyer’s nearest port, with the buyer responsible from there.

Example:

An industrial equipment manufacturer sells machinery to overseas buyers under CIF terms, handling all shipping costs and insurance until port arrival

Commercial Terms

Delivery

Planning

No items found.

COFC (Container on Flat Car)

A type of rail transport where shipping containers are loaded directly onto flat railcars, allowing for seamless transfer between different transportation modes.

Example:

An intermodal operator transfers shipping containers from trucks to railcars for long-distance transport across the country

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Cabotage

The transport of goods or passengers between two places in the same country by a foreign-registered vehicle or vessel, usually subject to regulations.

Example:

A coastal shipping company transports goods between domestic ports, adhering to national maritime regulations for internal shipping routes

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Capacity

The maximum amount of goods a transportation vehicle or warehouse can hold, or the amount of freight a carrier can transport at one time.

Example:

A refrigerated warehouse tracks and manages available storage space during peak harvest season to optimize food storage and distribution

Planning & Operations

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Capacity Management

The process of planning and controlling a company's transportation or storage capacity to meet demand efficiently, ensuring optimal use of resources.

Example:

A retail distribution center adjusts staffing and equipment levels based on seasonal demand forecasts, ensuring efficient order fulfillment

Planning & Operations

Delivery

Planning

Storage

Customizable Calendars

Carbon Footprint Measurement

The systematic tracking and quantification of greenhouse gas emissions throughout the supply chain, including direct operations and indirect emissions from suppliers and logistics.

Example:

A logistics provider tracks emissions from their truck fleet, warehouses, and operations to identify reduction opportunities and meet environmental goals

Sustainability

Delivery

Planning

Storage

No items found.

Cargo

Goods or merchandise being transported by ship, airplane, truck, or another mode of transport, typically for commercial trade or business purposes.

Example:

A toy manufacturer consolidates holiday season shipments into efficient cargo loads, optimizing container space and reducing shipping costs

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Cargo Insurance

Insurance that covers the loss or damage of cargo while it is in transit, protecting the shipper or receiver from financial loss.

Example:

A high-end electronics distributor insures international shipments against damage, theft, and loss during ocean transit

Risk Management

Delivery

No items found.

Cargo Security and Safety

Measures and procedures implemented to protect cargo from theft, damage, or tampering during transportation, ensuring the safe and secure delivery of goods.

Example:

A pharmaceutical distributor implements seal programs, GPS tracking, and temperature monitoring for high-value drug shipments

Operations

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Carrier

A company or individual responsible for transporting goods by land, sea, or air, often contracted by shippers to move cargo from origin to destination.

Example:

A regional trucking company specializes in refrigerated transport for food distributors, maintaining specific temperature ranges during transit

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Carrier Liability

The legal responsibility of a carrier for any loss, damage, or delay of goods during transit, often limited by contractual agreements or industry regulations.

Example:

A freight company clearly defines their liability limits for damaged goods in their service contracts, specifying coverage amounts and exclusions

Commercial Terms

Delivery

No items found.

Carrier Management

The process of selecting and managing transportation carriers to ensure they meet service requirements, cost expectations, and compliance with logistics needs.

Example:

A large manufacturer coordinates multiple carriers for different lanes and modes, evaluating performance metrics and costs quarterly

Operations

Delivery

No items found.

Cartage

The local transport of goods over short distances, often within the same city or region, typically involving small trucks or vans.

Example:

A local delivery service handles short-distance transportation of goods from a port to nearby warehouses

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Chassis

A wheeled frame used to transport shipping containers over short distances, typically within ports or between nearby locations.

Example:

A port terminal maintains a fleet of chassis for efficient container movement between ships and truck transport

Equipment

Delivery

No items found.

Chock

A wedge or block placed against a vehicle’s wheels to prevent it from moving accidentally, ensuring stability during loading, unloading, or parking.

Example:

A warehouse uses wheel chocks to secure delivery trucks during loading and unloading operations, ensuring worker safety

Equipment

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Circular Supply Chain

A supply chain model designed to eliminate waste and maximize resource use through continuous recycling, reuse, and remanufacturing of materials and products.

Example:

A furniture manufacturer designs products for easy disassembly, implementing take-back programs to recycle materials into new products

Sustainability

Manufacturing

Returns

Sourcing

No items found.

Cloud-Native Applications

Software applications built specifically for cloud computing architecture, enabling scalable supply chain solutions.

Example:

A logistics provider develops cloud-based applications for real-time shipment tracking, enabling easy scaling during peak seasons

Technology

Delivery

Planning

No items found.

Cognitive Supply Chain

Supply chain systems that use AI and ML to learn, adapt, and make autonomous decisions.

Example:

A large distributor uses AI-powered systems to automatically adjust inventory levels and reorder points based on real-time demand patterns

Technology

Planning

Sourcing

Storage

No items found.

Cold Chain

A temperature-controlled supply chain used for perishable goods, ensuring proper handling and storage from origin to destination.

Example:

A vaccine manufacturer maintains precise temperature control throughout distribution, using specialized packaging and monitored transportation

Transportation

Delivery

Manufacturing

Storage

No items found.

Collaborative Planning, Forecasting, and Replenishment (CPFR)

A supply chain practice where partners share information to improve demand forecasting, production planning, and inventory replenishment, enhancing overall efficiency.

Example:

A retailer shares point-of-sale data with suppliers to improve demand forecasts and inventory management, reducing stockouts

Planning & Operations

Planning

Sourcing

No items found.

Compliance Management

The process of ensuring that a company’s logistics operations adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, including safety, environmental, and industry standards.

Example:

A chemical distributor maintains detailed documentation of hazardous material handling procedures, ensuring regulatory compliance

Operations

Delivery

Planning

Storage

No items found.

Consensus Mechanisms

Protocols used in blockchain to validate and verify transactions across the supply chain network, ensuring data integrity.

Example:

Multiple parties in a coffee supply chain validate trade documentation and quality certifications through distributed consensus

Technology

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

Consignee

The individual or business that is the recipient of goods in a shipment, to whom the carrier will deliver the goods.

Example:

A department store receives and verifies incoming shipments against purchase orders, acting as the consignee for vendor deliveries

Trade

Delivery

No items found.

Consignor

The individual or business that sends goods via a carrier, responsible for arranging the shipment and completing the necessary documentation.

Example:

A manufacturing plant ships finished products to distribution centers, generating shipping documentation as the consignor

Trade

Delivery

No items found.

Consolidated Billing

A billing method where multiple shipments are combined into a single invoice, simplifying the payment process for customers who have frequent or regular shipments.

Example:

A logistics provider combines multiple small shipments into a single monthly invoice for a retail customer with frequent deliveries

Documentation

Delivery

Auto Billing

Container

A large, standardized metal box used to transport goods securely across various modes of transport, including ships, trucks, and trains.

Example:

A textile exporter uses standard 40-foot containers to ship finished garments to international buyers

Equipment

Delivery

No items found.

Container Terminal

A facility at a port or inland location where containers are transferred between ships, trucks, and trains, or stored temporarily during transit.

Example:

A port facility manages the transfer of containers between ships, trains, and trucks, utilizing automated stacking systems

Facilities

Delivery

No items found.

Continuous Improvement Programs

Ongoing efforts within a business to enhance processes, products, or services, often through regular feedback, data analysis, and performance reviews.

Example:

A distribution center implements worker suggestions for picking route optimization, reducing walk time and improving efficiency

Core Concepts

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Contract Negotiation

The process of discussing and agreeing on terms, rates, and service levels between two or more parties in logistics or transportation agreements.

Example:

A manufacturer establishes long-term shipping contracts with carriers, defining service levels and rates for regular routes

Operations

Delivery

Planning

Escrow & Minimum Pays

Custom Rates

Cost-to-Serve Analysis

An assessment of all costs involved in serving a customer or market, including transportation, storage, and handling, to determine profitability and efficiency.

Example:

A beverage distributor analyzes delivery costs by customer and region to optimize route planning and pricing strategies

Core Concepts

Delivery

Planning

Analytics

Cross Trade

Trade where goods are transported directly between two foreign countries, bypassing the exporter’s home country, often to streamline supply chains.

Example:

An electronics component broker arranges shipment from a manufacturer in one country directly to an assembly plant in another

Operations

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

Cross-Border Logistics

The management and coordination of the movement of goods across international borders, ensuring compliance with customs, taxes, and regulations.

Example:

A clothing manufacturer coordinates customs clearance, duties, and international shipping for products moving between production facilities

Operations

Delivery

No items found.

Cross-Docking

A logistics process where incoming goods are unloaded from one transport vehicle and directly loaded onto another, minimizing storage time in a warehouse.

Example:

A grocery distributor transfers incoming pallets directly to outbound trucks without storage, maintaining cold chain for fresh products

Planning & Operations

Delivery

Mid Mile

Customs Bond

A financial guarantee ensuring payment of duties and taxes to customs authorities, required for importing goods.

Example:

An electronics importer maintains a continuous bond to ensure payment of duties and taxes on regular shipments

Trade

Sourcing

No items found.

Customs Broker

A professional or company that assists importers and exporters in clearing goods through customs, ensuring compliance with regulations and handling necessary documentation.

Example:

A small importer uses a customs broker to handle documentation and clearance for shipments of specialty foods

Service Providers

Sourcing

No items found.

Customs Brokerage Services

Services provided by customs brokers to help importers and exporters navigate customs processes, including filing paperwork, paying duties, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

Example:

A textile importer utilizes brokerage services to manage complex tariff classifications and duty calculations

Service Providers

Sourcing

No items found.

Customs Clearance

The process of gaining approval from customs authorities to import or export goods, involving documentation, inspections, and payment of taxes or duties.

Example:

A cosmetics company prepares and submits required documentation for importing raw materials from multiple countries

Trade

Sourcing

No items found.

Customs Duty

A tax imposed on goods imported into a country, usually based on the value, weight, or quantity of the goods, paid by the importer.

Example:

A wine importer calculates and pays appropriate duties based on product value and alcohol content

Trade

Sourcing

No items found.

Dangerous Goods

Materials that pose a risk to health, safety, or the environment during transportation, such as chemicals, explosives, or radioactive materials, requiring special handling.

Example:

A chemical manufacturer follows strict packaging and labeling requirements for shipping hazardous materials by air

Transportation

Delivery

Manufacturing

No items found.

Data Logger

A device that records and stores environmental data, such as temperature or humidity, during the transportation of sensitive goods to ensure they remain within safe limits.

Example:

A pharmaceutical distributor uses temperature loggers in vaccine shipments to verify cold chain maintenance during transit

Technology

Delivery

No items found.

Deadhead

The movement of a transportation vehicle without any cargo, typically on the return trip after delivering a shipment or when traveling to pick up new cargo.

Example:

A tank truck delivers chemicals to a manufacturing plant and returns empty to the distribution center, incurring costs without cargo

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) in Supply Chain

Blockchain-based financial services for supply chain transactions, including trade finance and payments.

Example:

A network of small suppliers uses blockchain-based financing to receive immediate payment on delivered goods, improving cash flow

Technology

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

Dedicated Contract Carriage

A logistics service where a carrier provides vehicles and drivers exclusively for one customer’s use, often under a long-term contract for consistent service.

Example:

A large grocery chain contracts exclusive use of 50 refrigerated trucks and drivers for regular store deliveries

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Dedicated Fleet Management

The operation and oversight of a fleet of vehicles reserved for a single business, ensuring efficient transportation and handling of that company’s shipments.

Example:

A beverage distributor manages their own fleet of 100 trucks, optimizing routes and maintenance schedules for local deliveries

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Dedicated Freight

Transportation services provided exclusively for one customer’s shipments, often ensuring priority handling, specific routes, or tailored delivery schedules.

Example:

A fast-food chain uses dedicated refrigerated trucks for restaurant deliveries, ensuring consistent service and temperature control

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Delivery Order

A document issued by a consignee or freight forwarder that authorizes a carrier or terminal operator to release goods to a specific party at the delivery point.

Example:

A port terminal releases imported machinery to a trucking company after receiving proper documentation from the consignee

Commercial Terms

Delivery

Configurable Delivery Time Windows

Demand Planning

The process of forecasting customer demand to optimize inventory levels and production scheduling.

Example:

A seasonal clothing manufacturer forecasts product demand 12 months ahead to optimize production and inventory levels

Planning & Operations

Manufacturing

Planning

No items found.

Demurrage

A fee charged when cargo remains at a terminal or on a vehicle longer than the free time allowed, typically applied to containers awaiting pickup or delivery.

Example:

A container of auto parts incurs daily fees at the port due to delayed customs documentation

Commercial Terms

Delivery

No items found.

Detention

A charge incurred when trucks or containers are delayed beyond the scheduled loading or unloading time, compensating carriers for lost time and availability.

Example:

A truck waits extra hours at a construction site for unloading, resulting in carrier charges for the delayed equipment

Commercial Terms

Delivery

No items found.

Digital Control Tower

Advanced visualization and decision-making center providing real-time supply chain visibility and analytics.

Example:

A manufacturing network uses centralized monitoring to track global shipments, inventory levels, and potential disruptions in real-time

Technology

Delivery

Manufacturing

Planning

Sourcing

Analytics

Digital Supply Chain Twin

Advanced digital replica of the physical supply chain used for real-time monitoring, simulation, and optimization.

Example:

A factory creates a virtual replica of their production and distribution network to simulate different scenarios and optimize operations

Technology

Delivery

Manufacturing

Planning

No items found.

Digital Supply Network

Evolution of linear supply chain into dynamic, interconnected systems using digital technologies.

Example:

A network of food producers, processors, and distributors share real-time data to optimize inventory and reduce waste

Technology

Delivery

Manufacturing

Planning

Sourcing

Integrations & App Connectivity

Customization, Flexibility, & Scalability

Client Portals

Digital Thread

Connected flow of data throughout the product lifecycle and supply chain.

Example:

An aerospace parts manufacturer tracks components from raw material through assembly and maintenance, maintaining digital records

Technology

Delivery

Manufacturing

Sourcing

No items found.

Digital Twin

A virtual representation of physical logistics operations used for simulation and optimization.

Example:

A warehouse creates a virtual replica to test different layout configurations and automation solutions before implementation

Technology

Storage

Shyftbase AI

Dispatch

The process of assigning and sending out vehicles or freight to specific destinations, often involving route planning and scheduling to ensure timely delivery.

Example:

A service parts distributor coordinates emergency deliveries to repair technicians based on real-time demand and location

Operations

Delivery

No items found.

Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT)

A decentralized database shared across multiple locations in the supply chain, providing transparent and immutable record-keeping.

Example:

Multiple trading partners record and verify organic certification documentation using shared, immutable records

Technology

Manufacturing

Sourcing

No items found.

Distributed Order Management

A system that optimizes order fulfillment across multiple locations and channels.

Example:

A retailer fulfills online orders from the optimal combination of stores and warehouses based on inventory and location

Technology

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Distribution Center

A warehouse where goods are stored, sorted, and distributed to retailers or customers, often serving as a hub for fulfilling orders efficiently.

Example:

A home goods company operates a 500,000 square foot facility to store and process orders for regional store delivery

Facilities

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Distribution Network

The interconnected system of warehouses, transportation routes, and retail locations that ensure goods move from manufacturers

Example:

A national retailer operates five strategic distribution centers to efficiently serve stores across the country

Core Concepts

Delivery

Planning

Storage

Mid Mile

Full Network Management

Distribution Strategy

A company’s plan for efficiently delivering goods to customers, including decisions about transportation modes, warehouse locations, and delivery schedules.

Example:

A beverage company plans facility locations and transportation modes to minimize costs while meeting service requirements

Core Concepts

Delivery

Planning

Full Network Management

Route Optimization

Customizable Calendars

Dock Leveler

A mechanical device used at a loading dock to bridge the gap between a truck and the dock, ensuring smooth and safe loading or unloading.

Example:

A food distributor uses hydraulic dock levelers to safely accommodate different truck heights during loading

Equipment

Delivery

Storage

No items found.

Dock Receipt

A document issued by a shipping company or terminal operator acknowledging receipt of cargo for shipment, typically used as a proof of delivery to the port.

Example:

A port facility issues receipts for received containers, documenting condition and quantity for shipping records

Documentation

Delivery

No items found.

Double-Stack Train

A type of freight train that carries two containers stacked on top of each other, maximizing space and reducing transportation costs.

Example:

An intermodal carrier transports containers two-high on rail cars between major cities, maximizing capacity

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Drayage

The short-distance transport of goods, often from a port to a nearby warehouse or distribution center, typically involving containerized freight.

Example:

A trucking company moves containers from the port to a nearby distribution center for unloading

Transportation

Delivery

No items found.

Drop Trailer

A logistics service where a carrier leaves a trailer at a shipper’s or receiver’s location for loading or unloading, allowing more flexible scheduling for both parties.

Example:

A manufacturer leaves trailers at a supplier facility for loading, picking them up once filled

Transportation

Delivery

Sourcing

No items found.

Dry Van

A standard, enclosed trailer used for transporting general cargo that doesn’t require temperature control, protecting goods from the elements.

Example:

A general freight carrier uses standard enclosed trailers to protect packaged goods during transit

Equipment

Delivery

No items found.

Dynamic Discounting

A financing solution that allows suppliers to receive early payments in exchange for a discount, with the discount rate varying based on payment timing.

Example:

A large manufacturer offers suppliers earlier payments in exchange for sliding-scale discounts

Finance

Sourcing

Auto Billing

Custom Rates

Auto Pay

E-commerce Logistics

The process of managing the storage, transportation, and delivery of goods purchased through online platforms, ensuring timely and accurate fulfillment of customer orders.

Example:

An online retailer manages inventory across multiple fulfillment centers to enable rapid home delivery

Operations

Delivery

Storage

Multimodal Order Flows

Last Mile

Customer Support Availability

E-commerce Logistics Strategies

Tactics and methods used to optimize the movement of goods in e-commerce, including efficient warehousing, inventory management, fast shipping, and returns handling.

Example:

A multichannel retailer develops integrated inventory and fulfillment processes for stores and online orders

Operations

Delivery

Planning

Storage

No items found.

EDI (Electronic Data Interchange)

A technology that allows businesses to exchange standardized electronic documents, such as purchase orders and invoices, between systems, reducing manual entry and errors.

Example:

A supplier automatically receives purchase orders and sends shipping notices through standardized electronic messages

Technology

Delivery

Planning

Sourcing

Supplier Portals

Multimodal Order Flows

Inventory