Logistikkette

Logistikkette, or supply chain, is the network of organizations, activities, and information flows involved in producing and delivering a product or service from raw materials to the end customer. It spans sourcing, manufacturing, warehousing, transport, distribution, and post-sale activities across multiple companies and geographies.

Core components include sourcing of raw materials, production or assembly, warehousing and inventory management, transportation, order fulfillment, packaging, and reverse logistics. Material, information, and financial flows move through the chain, enabling planning, execution, and settlement across suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and customers.

Actors in a logistikkette include suppliers, manufacturers, logistics service providers (such as 3PLs and 4PLs), distributors, retailers, and end customers. Structures can be centralized or networked, and chains may be globally distributed or regional. Effective chains rely on collaboration, data sharing, and visibility to optimize performance.

Management activities cover demand forecasting, procurement planning, production scheduling, inventory control, and transportation management. The aim is to balance cost, service level, lead time, and flexibility while building resilience against disruptions. Risk management, supplier diversification, and contingency planning are increasingly emphasized.

Metrics commonly used to assess logistikkette performance include on-time delivery, order accuracy, lead time, fill rate, inventory turnover, and total cost of ownership. Optimization approaches involve lean inventory, safety stock, route optimization, and digital tools such as ERP, WMS, and TMS, coupled with analytics and AI.

Technology and trends drive transparency and efficiency, with real-time tracking, end-to-end visibility, RFID/barcodes, IoT, and sustainability measures. Modern logistikkette also consider reverse logistics and environmental impact, aiming to reduce emissions and waste while maintaining customer value.