Logistík

Logistík, or logistics, is the discipline responsible for planning, implementing, and controlling the efficient, effective flow and storage of goods, services, and related information from origin to consumption to meet customer requirements. It encompasses a network of activities including procurement, production planning, inventory management, warehousing, transportation, order fulfillment, packaging, and reverse logistics. The goal is to optimize cost, speed, and reliability while maintaining quality and traceability.

Historically, logistics originated in military contexts and expanded with industrialization and globalization. In modern business, it is a core component of supply chain management, linking suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and customers through integrated processes and information systems such as ERP, WMS, and TMS.

Logistics can be classified into inbound logistics (flows from suppliers to the organization) and outbound logistics (flows from the organization to customers), with reverse logistics handling returns and recycling. Third- and fourth-party logistics providers contract out some or all logistics functions to specialized firms.

Key performance indicators include delivery reliability, lead time, inventory turnover, fill rate, and total landed cost. Trends shaping logistík today include digitalization, IoT, data analytics, AI, and automation, as well as a growing emphasis on sustainability and last-mile delivery in urban environments. Challenges include demand volatility, disruptions, transportation capacity, regulatory compliance, and environmental impact.