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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

Value Stream Mapping

A visual tool used to analyze and optimize the flow of materials and information in a process, identifying waste and areas for improvement in the supply chain.

Example:

A warehouse offers product kitting and custom packaging services

Core Concepts

Storage

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Value-Added Services

Additional services provided by logistics companies to enhance the value of a product, such as packaging, assembly, or customization, improving customer satisfaction and efficiency.

Example:

Workers carefully load and secure fragile products in shipping containers

Service Providers

Delivery

Reverse Logistics

Surveys

Delivery & Install

Customer Support Availability

Vanning

The process of loading goods into a container or trailer for transportation, ensuring proper packing and securing to prevent damage during transit.

Example:

A supplier monitors and replenishes stock levels at customer locations

Operations

Storage

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Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI)

A collaborative inventory management approach where suppliers manage the inventory levels of their products at the customer’s location, optimizing stock and reducing costs.

Example:

A shipping line operates container ships on regular trans-Pacific routes

Planning & Operations

Delivery

Supplier Portals

Inventory

Vessel

A large watercraft used for transporting goods and cargo across bodies of water, including ships and boats, essential for international trade.

Example:

A warehouse uses VR simulations to train forklift operators safely

Transportation

Storage

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Virtual Reality Training

VR-based training solutions for supply chain operations and safety procedures.

Example:

A company optimizes storage layout and picking paths for efficiency

Technology

Storage

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Warehouse Design and Management

The planning and organization of warehouse space and operations to maximize efficiency and streamline inventory management, facilitating effective storage and retrieval of goods.

Example:

Software directs put-away and picking operations in a distribution center

Facilities

Storage

Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Software that helps manage warehouse operations, including inventory tracking, order fulfillment, and logistics, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in distribution centers.

Example:

A facility documents receipt and storage of goods for customers

Technology

Storage

Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Warehouse Receipt

A document issued by a warehouse operator acknowledging the receipt of goods for storage, providing details on the quantity and condition of the items stored.

Example:

A 3PL provides shared storage space for multiple manufacturers

Documentation

Storage

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Warehousing

The process of storing goods in a dedicated facility, enabling businesses to manage inventory, meet customer demand, and streamline distribution.

Example:

A carrier issues shipping documentation for international air freight

Facilities

Delivery

Warehouse Management System (WMS)

Waybill

A document that accompanies goods in transit, providing details such as the shipment's destination, contents, and terms of transportation for the carrier.

Example:

A less-than-truckload carrier sets rate tiers based on shipment weight

Documentation

Delivery

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Weight Break

The specific weight at which shipping rates change, impacting cost calculations for freight transportation based on the weight of the shipment.

Example:

A company improves cash flow by managing payment terms and inventory levels

Transportation

Planning

Sourcing

Custom Rates

Working Capital Optimization

Strategies and practices to improve the management of accounts payable, accounts receivable, and inventory to maximize cash flow efficiency.

Example:

A parcel carrier transfers packages between vehicles without storage

Finance

Delivery

Escrow & Minimum Pays

Auto Pay

Auto Billing

X-Dock

A logistics strategy where goods are transferred directly from inbound to outbound transport without being stored, minimizing handling time and improving efficiency.

Example:

A specialized truck moves trailers between loading docks and parking spots

Facilities

Delivery

Storage

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Yard Jockey

A vehicle used in a distribution center or warehouse to move trailers or containers within the yard, ensuring efficient loading and unloading operations.

Example:

Software tracks trailer locations and movements in a distribution center

Equipment

Delivery

Storage

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Yard Management System (YMS)

Software that oversees the movement of trailers and containers in a yard, optimizing operations and improving visibility of yard activities.

Example:

A carrier adjusts freight rates based on available capacity and demand

Technology

Delivery

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Yield Management

A pricing strategy that adjusts prices based on demand, optimizing revenue for transportation and logistics services by analyzing market conditions.

Example:

A manufacturer coordinates direct delivery of components to production lines

Risk Management

Manufacturing

Custom Rates

Zero Inventory

A strategy aimed at minimizing inventory levels to reduce holding costs, relying on just-in-time practices to meet customer demand without excess stock.

Example:

A retailer consolidates regional parcels for direct injection to destination hubs

Planning & Operations

Delivery

Inventory

Zone Skipping

A logistics strategy that consolidates shipments and bypasses certain distribution centers or zones to reduce transit time and costs, enhancing delivery efficiency.

Example:

A retailer consolidates regional parcels for direct injection to destination hubs

Transportation

Delivery

Planning

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