Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Logistics Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“ฆ
Add to dictionary

logistics

[lษ™หˆdส’ษชstษชks ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

business management

Logistics refers to the detailed organization and implementation of a complex operation, often involving the movement of goods and services. It encompasses the planning, execution, and control of the flow of materials, information, and resources from the point of origin to the point of consumption. Effective logistics management ensures that the right products are delivered to the right place at the right time.

Synonyms

distribution, moving, supply chain, transportation.

Examples of usage

  • The logistics of keeping inventory in stock requires careful planning.
  • The company's logistics operation has improved efficiency.
  • Logistics plays a crucial role in supply chain management.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • In World War II, logistics was critical for orchestrating troop movements and ensuring the supply of food and equipment.
  • The 'Logistics Revolution' in the late 20th century transformed how companies manage supply chains, emphasizing efficiency.
  • Ancient civilizations relied on sophisticated logistics to manage trade routes, with Roman roads enabling efficient transport of goods.

Business

  • Modern companies now employ logistics software to streamline operations, enhancing productivity and reducing costs.
  • Just-in-time logistics has become essential in manufacturing, minimizing storage costs by synchronizing production with delivery.
  • E-commerce giants utilize advanced logistics networks to ensure fast delivery, significantly impacting customer satisfaction.

Technology

  • Drones are increasingly being tested for logistics to improve last-mile delivery in hard-to-reach areas.
  • Automation and robotics are revolutionizing warehouse logistics, improving efficiency and accuracy in order fulfillment.
  • Data analytics helps companies forecast demand and optimize routes, reducing delivery times and costs.

Culture

  • The rise of global e-commerce has made logistics a critical field, influencing buying behaviors and consumer expectations.
  • Popular culture often reflects logistics challenges in movies or shows that involve heists or complex deliveries.
  • Logistics professionals have become crucial actors in the global economy, yet their work often goes unnoticed.

Origin of 'logistics'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Greek word 'logistiki', which means 'the art of calculation'.
  • Originally, it was used in military contexts to describe the management of troops and supplies.
  • It gained popularity in business settings in the mid-20th century, reflecting the growth of trade and transportation.

The term 'logistics' has its origins in the military, deriving from the Greek word 'logistikos', which means 'skilled in calculating'. It was used in the early 19th century to refer to the management of the supply and movement of troops. Over time, the meaning of logistics expanded beyond military context to encompass civilian scenarios involving the transportation and distribution of goods and services. In the late 20th century, logistics underwent further evolution with the growth of globalization and complex supply chains, becoming a critical aspect of business operations across various industries. Today, logistics is essential for ensuring that products are delivered efficiently and effectively, playing a vital role in the global economy.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,464, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.