What does Integrated Logistics mean?
Definition and explanation: Integrated logistics
The term ‘Integrated Logistics’ refers to a supply chain business model in which all relevant entities responsible for moving goods from origin to destination, are connected and coordinated to work towards the same objective. These entities include data, processes, and people. In other words, all digital information on shipment characteristics, requirements and status is shared with the supply chain parties. The different departments interact with each other, coordinating resources and workflows, and fine-tuning processes and deadlines to ensure the smooth shipment transport.
Integrated Logistics can be split into four main areas:
- Supply: coordinating suppliers, and planning the procurement and the delivery of raw materials
- Production: planning and coordinating the production of goods, inventory, and warehousing operations
- Marketing: coordinating the packaging of goods to enhance logistics processes
- Delivery: coordinating the consolidation, segregation, transport, distribution, and delivery of goods
How does Integrated Logistics work at time:matters
Regarding the four main areas above, time:matters may be involved in any of the four steps, from the urgent delivery of materials required for production, to the delivery of prototypes or final products. time:matters works closely with its customers to determine their shipment requirements, and then coordinates an established network of logistics partners such as airlines and road feeder services, and on-board couriers, alongside its suppliers, such as courier partners, for example. Relevant data along the entire logistics process, is transmitted via data exchange. These can be EDI messaging, via API connections, or – as in the case of communication with on board couriers – via an app developed specifically for the purpose.