What does outbound logistics mean?

Outbound logistics, also known as distribution or sales logistics, encompasses all logistical processes required to transport finished products from the company to end customers or other destinations such as branches or intermediate warehouses. It represents the link between production and the market and forms the final stage of the supply chain.

Key tasks of outbound logistics

The main tasks of outbound logistics include:

• Order management: Receiving, checking, and processing customer orders
• Picking: Retrieving the ordered items from the warehouse
• Packaging: Ensuring that the products are packaged appropriately for transport
• Shipping preparation: Creating shipping documents and labeling
• Transport: Selecting the appropriate means of transport and organizing shipping
• Distribution: Delivering the products to end customers or destinations

The importance of outbound logistics

Efficient outbound logistics are crucial for customer satisfaction. They ensure that products arrive at the customer on time, complete, and undamaged. Optimized processes enable companies to reduce costs, shorten delivery times, and increase their competitiveness.

Connection to other areas of logistics

Outbound logistics is closely related to inbound logistics (material and goods procurement) and reverse logistics (return of goods, for example in the case of returns). Close integration of these areas is necessary to ensure an efficient and cost-effective supply chain.