What does end-to-end logistics mean?

Emergency Logistics Glossary

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Definition and explanation: End-to-End in logistics

The term ‘end-to-end logistics’, often abbreviated to E2E, describes a transportation process that encompasses the entire supply chain: Depending on the business, it can already start with product design or with procurement, and then covers all related distribution and transport activities, through to delivery to the final customer. Extended end-to-end logistics processes may also include after-sales services and return logistics.

Typical end-to-end logistics tasks include:

  • Communication between manufacturers, suppliers, and customers
  • Inspection of product / shipment contents
  • Packaging and warehousing
  • Scheduling, booking, and other organizational tasks
  • Transportation, shipping, and delivery services
  • Possibly: handling customer returns

What are the advantages of end-to-end logistics?

Outsourcing end-to-end logistics processes to a logistics company offers several benefits such as:

  • cost-savings: both in terms of time and manpower
  • simplicity and speed: logistics experts handle all the administration and tasks
  • improved supply network efficiency and performance
  • fast response in case of system problems or delays due to unpredictable events
  • more sustainable processes through intelligent consolidation and route planning
  • smarter and more flexible allocation of resources
  • optimized route scheduling and shipment tracking
  • avoidance of empty runs
  • streamlined deliveries to meet customer expectations

How time:matters supports end-to-end logistics

When it comes to end-to-end logistics, time matters. Efficient logistics strongly influence a company’s success and profitability. The individual steps in the supply chain process are often time-sensitive, and therefore require fast, efficient, and reliable, in-time transport solutions. time:matters’ core service is based on ensuring the correct product in the right condition is customized and transferred at the right time from origin to the correct destination, and on to the right customer.

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