Logistics is an important economic sector, connecting the stages in the supply chain. Thanks to logistics , goods are distributed effectively, meeting market demand. This sector is opening up many attractive job opportunities and great development potential.
What is logistics?
Logistics, literally means “logistics,” but in the modern business world, logistics is much more than just moving goods from point A to point B. Logistics is the process of planning , implementing , and managing the efficient movement and storage of goods, services, and information in a supply chain. Imagine a continuously flowing river, with each stage from production to consumption playing an important role in maintaining that flow. This is where logistics plays a coordinating role, ensuring that goods move on the right route, to the right place, and at the right time.
In practice, logistics includes activities such as transportation management , warehousing , order processing , transportation planning , and problem solving . An effective logistics system can reduce costs, improve delivery times, and increase customer satisfaction. We can compare logistics to the heart of a business, which efficiently delivers “blood” – that is, products – to other parts of the body.
Characteristics of the logistics industry
Logistics has many complex aspects and requires interaction between many different departments. According to Decree 163/2017/ND-CP , logistics services in Vietnam include activities such as:
- Freight transport services : This service includes road, rail, sea and air transport.
- Warehouse services : Management and storage of goods.
- Transport agency : Including customs clearance, bill of lading inspection, freight brokerage.
- Warehouse management services : Coordinate the collection, sorting and delivery of goods.
One of the highlights of logistics is the ability to optimize resources through the use of modern technology, from warehouse management systems ( WMS ) to transportation planning software ( TMS ). This helps businesses not only reduce costs but also improve operational efficiency .
The role of logistics industry
Logistics plays a vital role in the modern economy, as it affects not only businesses but also individuals and consumers.
- Optimize business processes : Logistics helps businesses optimize their operations, from inventory control to product distribution. An efficient logistics system ensures that goods are delivered on time, thereby minimizing storage costs and delivery times.
- Enhance customer relationships : Logistics plays an important role in maintaining relationships between suppliers and customers. When businesses deliver on time and ensure product quality, customer trust is also strengthened.
- Promote international trade : Cross-border freight transport helps expand markets and increase business opportunities. In particular, with the development of e-commerce , international logistics has become an indispensable part of the global supply chain.
Popular positions in the logistics industry
There are many different positions and jobs in the logistics industry, each playing a distinct but important role in ensuring the supply chain runs smoothly. Some typical positions include:
1. Shipping staff
This is the person who ensures that goods are delivered from the manufacturing site to the customer safely and on time. They must plan routes, ensure appropriate transportation, and oversee the movement of goods.
2. Purchasing staff
Purchasing raw materials and input products is the responsibility of this employee. They search for the best suppliers, negotiate prices and contract terms, and ensure a stable supply for the business.
3. Delivery staff
Responsible for receiving goods, checking the status of goods, and performing the delivery confirmation process with customers. This is an important step to ensure that products arrive at their destination without any problems.
4. Route staff
Routing is the planning of the most optimal transportation route, ensuring the fastest delivery time at the lowest cost. Route optimization is the factor that helps to minimize transportation costs and delivery time.
5. Warehouse management
Ensure efficient inventory management , without shortage or surplus. Warehouse management plays an important role in coordinating inventory levels to match market demand.
6. Field staff
Field workers supervise and coordinate logistics activities at points of operation such as warehouses, terminals, and railway stations. They are responsible for ensuring that operations run efficiently and meet the organization's goals.
7. Logistics project management
A logistics project manager oversees the entire logistics process from start to finish. They must plan, coordinate activities, and resolve any issues that arise to ensure the project is completed on schedule.
8. Customs Specialist
Customs specialists handle customs clearance procedures, ensure compliance with import and export laws and help resolve issues related to taxes and fees.
9. Customer service staff
These are the people who come into direct contact with customers, answer questions, handle complaints and ensure customers are satisfied with logistics services .
The Meaning of Logistics in Business
Logistics is not only a part of business, but also a strategic competitive factor . Efficiency in logistics helps businesses reduce operating costs, improve performance and competitiveness in the market.
For example, a business with good warehouse management will minimize excess inventory while ensuring that products are always available to customers. As a result, the business can deliver products faster than competitors and improve the customer experience .
What do you learn in Logistics and Supply Chain Management?
The logistics and supply chain management major provides training in transportation management , warehouse planning and control , logistics processes , inventory management , and international logistics . Courses in the major include:
- Warehouse Management : How to manage warehouse space, optimize storage.
- Transport planning : Build optimal transport routes, saving time and costs.
- Supply Chain Management : Understand how to operate the entire supply chain from supplier to end customer.
- Inventory Control : How to ensure adequate stock without excess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is logistics?
Logistics is the process of managing , planning , and controlling the movement, storage, and use of goods and services from the point of production to the consumer. - What subjects do you study in logistics?
Logistics majors study subjects such as warehousing management , transportation , supply chain management , inventory control , and goods management . - Should girls study logistics?
Girls can absolutely study logistics and take on many important roles in the industry, from warehouse management , purchasing , to supply chain management . - What are the job opportunities in the logistics industry?
The logistics industry has many job opportunities, especially with the strong development of e-commerce and international logistics.
Conclude
In the era of technology and globalization, logistics has become a core factor that helps businesses operate effectively and grow sustainably. Considered the "underground flow" of all production and distribution activities, logistics not only ensures that goods are delivered on time, but also optimizes the entire supply chain.
If you are interested in this field and want to learn more about how businesses optimize logistics processes to gain competitive advantage, please refer to Brand Manager , which provides in-depth and updated knowledge about brand management and logistics strategies in modern business.