The key components of logistics have been an important feature of industrial and economic life for countless years, but it is only in the relatively recent past that logistics has been recognized as a major function in its own right. The main reason for this has probably been the nature of logistics itself. It is a function made up of many sub-functions and many sub-systems, each of which has been, and may still be, treated as a distinct management operation. Both the academic and the business world now accept that there is a need to adopt a more holistic view of these different operations in order to take into account how they interrelate and interact with one another. The appreciation of the scope and importance of logistics and the supply chain has led to a more scientific approach being adopted towards the subject. This approach has been aimed at the overall concept of the logistics function as a whole and also at the individual sub-systems. Much of this approach has addressed the need for, and means of, planning logistics and the supply chain, but has also considered some of the major operational issues. The global marketplace demands unprecedented efficiency, agility, and integration. Organization success no longer depends solely on internal capabilities. Success relies heavily on the strength and design of the overarching supply chain. This book, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, provides a practical framework for understanding the critical infrastructure that moves goods from origin to consumption. The text focuses on the core execution pillars of modern logistics operations. Managing these interconnected activities requires balancing cost, speed, and service quality. Designed for students, educators, and practitioners alike, this book blends theoretical principles with actionable industry insights. Understanding these concepts will equip readers to design and manage resilient supply chains capable of navigating a volatile global economy. Written for students, academics, and industry professionals alike, this text bridges fundamental concepts with cutting-edge industry practices. It serves as both a comprehensive guide to understanding operational workflows and a blueprint for driving organizational value through efficient supply chain architecture.
Thomas Goertler is a senior supply chain executive and author specializing in global logistics optimization and digital transformation. He has over 20 years of experience managing complex international supply chains. He bridges the gap between traditional logistics and modern technology. His work focuses on building resilient operations, reducing carbon footprints, and integrating automation into warehousing. He managed multi-million-dollar logistics networks across Europe, Asia, and North America. Led the successful rollout of AI-driven forecasting tools for Fortune 500 manufacturing firms. Designed eco-friendly fleet routing models that cut transport emissions by 15%. Goertler is a seasoned logistics executive and supply chain strategist dedicated to streamlining enterprise operations. Over a two-decade career, he has successfully redesigned end-to-end distribution models, integrated automated warehousing systems, and mitigated risk across volatile global networks. Goertler has spearheaded major procurement and distribution overhauls for top-tier e-commerce and retail brands. Their pragmatic approach emphasizes agility, green logistics, and network collaboration. When not optimizing global trade lanes, he mentors early-stage logistics tech startups and contribute insights to industry publications.
Preface 1. The Context Of Logistics Introduction Definitions The Supply Chain Activities Of Logistics Aims Of Logistics Importance Of Logistics 2. Integrating The Supply Chain Progress In Logistics Current Trends In Logistics Integrating Logistics Within An Organisation Integration Along The Supply Chain Achieving Integration 3. Logistics Strategy Strategic Decisions Logistics Strategy Strategy Options Designing A Logistics Strategy 4. Implementing The Strategy Relating Strategy To Lower Decisions Areas For Decisions In Implementation Managing Change 5. Locating Facilities Importance Of Location Choosing The Geographic Region Infinite Set Approaches Feasible Set Approaches Network Models Location Planning 6. Planning ResourcesTypes Of Planning Capacity Planning Adjusting Capacity Tactical Planning Short-Term Schedules 7. Controlling Material Flow Material Requirements Planning Extending The Role Of Mrp Principles Of Just-In-Time Achieving Just-In-Time Operations Extending Jit Along The Supply Chain 8. Measuring And Improving Performance Measuring Performance Comparing Performance Analysing A Supply Chain Improving Performance 9. Procurement Definitions Choosing Suppliers Procurement Cycle Types Of Purchase 10. Inventory Management Reasons For Holding Stock Economic Order Quantity Uncertain Demand And Safety Stock Periodic Review Systems Effort Of Stock Control 11. Warehousing And Material Handling Purpose Of Warehouses Activities Within A Warehouse Ownership Layout Materials Handling Packaging 12. Transport Introduction Mode Of Transport Intermodal Transport Ownership Of Transport Routing Vehicles 13. Global Logistics International Trade Problems With International Logistics Organising International Operations Bibliography Index