Logistics Management as defined by the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)

Logistics management is that part of supply chain management that plans, implements, and controls the efficient, effective forward and reverse flow and storage of goods, services, and related information between the point of origin and the point of consumption in order to meet customers’ requirements. Logistics management activities typically include:

  • inbound and outbound transportation management,
  • fleet management,
  • warehousing,
  • materials handling,
  • order fulfillment,
  • logistics network design,
  • inventory management,
  • supply/demand planning,
  • and management of return goods.

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) is the leading professional association dedicated to education and research in the field of logistics and supply chain management. The CSCMP’s mission is to “lead the development of innovative supply chain solutions through the advancement of supply chain management practices worldwide.”

In order to meet the needs of its members, the CSCMP provides a number of resources, including educational programs, publications, research, and networking opportunities. One of the most important resources offered by the CSCMP is the Body of Knowledge (BOK), which is a comprehensive guide to supply chain management concepts and best practices.

This definition provides a broad overview of the scope of logistics management and its role in supply chain management. It is important to note that the BOK definition focuses on the efficient and effective movement of goods and information, rather than on the actual physical transportation of goods. This reflects the increasingly important role that information technology plays in logistics management.

In order to be successful, logistics managers must have a thorough understanding of the entire supply chain and the various components that make up the system. They must also be able to effectively communicate with all members of the supply chain, from suppliers to customers, in order to coordinate activities and ensure that everyone is working towards common goals.

Related Links

SCM Definitions and Glossary of Terms
CSCMP Definition – Operations & Supply Chain Dictionary