In business, logistics is the management of goods from their point of origin to their final destination – meeting the needs of both companies and customers. It typically involves handling of materials, the flow of information, production, packaging, transportation, inventory, warehousing, and security.
A specialist in logistics is known as a logistician or a logistics consultant. Any company that’s involved in the movement of goods is likely to have a team of logistic consultants, managing the acquisition, distribution, and allocation of goods being delivered.
What is logistics consulting and why do companies use it? Read on to find out more…
What’s the difference between a logistics manager and a logistics consultant?
An experienced logistics manager will develop structured approaches to common projects – organising the storage and distribution of goods on a daily basis. A logistics manager will also be responsible for transportation, stock control, warehousing and inventory. Ensuring the right products are delivered to the correct location on time.
A logistics consultant helps companies organise these operations by evaluating processes for strengths and weaknesses, and recommending solutions that are tailor-made. These could range from small alterations to massive restructuring.
What does a logistics consultant do?
A logistics consultant makes an initial diagnosis and then proposes a solution. This is done by the analysis of information and strategic planning to improve the supply chain performance of the business.
Advice will also be given on the management of materials, productivity, packing and transportation, processing of orders and quality control. This all results in increased productivity, a reduction of excess costs, and technology systems updated to provide better customer service.
The role of a logistics consultant is fundamentally organisation, management, and coordination. Controlling the flow of goods and their storage will be monitored, regulated and proper functions and handling procedures then put into place.
Adapting incurred costs will ensure that the business spends the lowest amount possible without compromising standards and company deadlines – sourcing the cheapest distribution services without losing quality. Monitoring the rules that govern the transport of goods globally is also part of the job – checking quality standards, and complying to legal and tax regulations is also essential.
An authentic logistics consultant will also have contacts with company departments as well as any business partners. This flow of information will guarantee stakeholder satisfaction and establish relationships with suppliers, logistic operators, carriers, sales and purchasing personnel, and customers.
What part does a logistics consultant play within a company?
When a business has specific needs a logistics consultant will be able to address them. This is done by:
- Assessing each logistical function to be able to suggest an improvement
- Determining the destination of materials, supplies, and finished products
- Finding the fastest and least expensive method of moving goods
- Presenting plans, assessments, and performance data
- Incorporating new technologies into current procedures
Using analytical and key message capabilities a logistics consultant is then able to assist with making operation more productive, the layout of warehouse equipment, network strategies, stock reduction, and lowering transport costs. Focus will also be put into safeguarding procedures that flow through product handling industries from manufacturing through to delivery.
Improving any supply chain operation troubles is the main responsibility of the logistics consultant. By re-engineering and using infotech advancements to fix any issues, quality assurance will then be reinforced. The best possible function of the supply chain from beginning to end will then be guaranteed.
How to choose a logistics consultant
It’s important to make sure that your chosen logistics consultant has the key skills and certification needed. Logistics consulting includes problem-solving, good communication, organisational proficiencies, and critical thinking.
Educational requirements for logistic consultants’ positions cover economics, marketing, management, or accounting, resulting in a Bachelor’s or Masters degree. Degrees in computer science and engineering would also be considered as acceptable. Logistics consultancy techniques can also be taught through business schools – providing networking skills and hands-on training.
Types of logistic consulting
Logistics consulting in Barcelona, for example, covers:
Automotive – streamlining supply chains to the entire automotive industry, consulting on raw materials for manufacture, purchasing, selling, and creating of parts.
Chemical – whether you’re storing, transporting, importing, or exporting both hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals, consulting will provide the safest and most efficient solutions.
Cosmetics – logistics and transportation consulting alongside assessments to streamline warehousing and distribution processes will improve business uses for manufacture.
Pharmaceutical – when specific requirements such as temperature-controlled storage or express transportation are needed, solutions will be found to match business needs.
Real estate – consulting is the simplest method of sourcing warehousing and distribution centres.
Textile and fashion – air, sea, and land transport will be assessed to get the best from supply chains, as well as improving storage and distribution.
Logistics consulting in Spain will ensure you overcome any logistics challenges your business may be facing.
