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Difference Between Logistics and Supply Chain Management

By Athena Rebello

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Updated on: Oct 8th, 2024

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2 min read

There are a number of similarities between logistics and supply chain management, but it is important to know that they are not the same. Several key differences separate the two practices. It is important for businesses to understand the role each plays in improving operational movements and enhancing customer service. 

In this article, we will list the main differences between logistics and supply chain management and provide insights on what makes them unique.

What is Logistics?

Logistics plays an important role in supply chain management and involves managing the storage and movement within the supply chain. It also includes the planning and execution of the storage and transportation of goods between the supply chain networks. Logistics assists in gathering the workforce, resources and machinery required to move the goods from one location to the final destination.

What is Supply Chain Management?

Supply chain management means streamlining all the activities involved in the production of goods, from obtaining the raw materials to transporting the finished goods to the end-user. It uses an associative, integrated and multimethod approach with the aim of improving the supply chain process. The objective is to benefit the business and improve customer satisfaction.

Is Logistics the Same as Supply Chain Management?

No, logistics and supply chain management are not the same. When it comes to logistics vs supply chain management, logistics places its focus on the movement and storage of goods. However, supply chain management is a comprehensive process that coordinates all activities, such as the sourcing, production, movement, storage, and distribution of goods. In other words, logistics is just a part of supply chain management, while supply chain management is the whole process. 

Key Differences Between Logistics and Supply Chain Management With Examples

Now, let’s explore the difference between logistics and supply chain management in more detail: 

Basis for Comparison

Supply Chain Management

Logistics

Scope

Supply chain management includes the end-to-end process, such as sourcing raw materials, production or manufacturing, distribution or delivery, and customer service. 

The scope of logistics is limited to the storage, transportation and distribution of the products within the supply chain. 

Function

The function of supply chain management is to manage the strategic planning and coordinating of all the processes associated with the product’s journey. 

The function of logistics is to handle the operational execution of the movement, storage and fulfilment processes. 

Components

Components of the supply chain include procurement, manufacturing, marketing, logistics, and customer service. 

The components of logistics are transportation, warehousing and the management of inventory.

Time Frame

Supply chain management deals with the entire lifecycle of the product.

Logistics deals with the movement and storage of goods within a specific time frame only.

Focus

Supply chain management objectives are cost reduction, process optimisation, and value creation. 

In logistics, the main focus is to meet customer demand.

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To sum up, logistics is all about the transportation and storage of goods, while supply chain management includes the entire process from sourcing to delivery. Understanding the difference between logistics and supply chain management can help businesses optimise their operations and enhance customer satisfaction. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between logistics and supply chain management?

The main difference between logistics and supply chain management is that logistics deals with the storage and transportation of goods, while supply chain management deals with coordinating and managing supply chains of an organisation. 

Is supply chain management part of logistics management?

No, the reverse is true. Logistics forms a part of the supply chain management and involves managing the forward and reverse movement of goods, services, and all the related information between the origin point and the consumption point to satisfy the customer requirements. 

Is logistics bigger than the supply chain?

No, the supply chain is bigger than logistics. Logistics is just a subset of the entire supply chain and focuses primarily on the transportation and storage of goods. Whereas the supply chain management includes logistics but also deals with other activities such as sourcing, turning raw materials into products, and demand planning. 

About the Author

A Chartered Accountant by profession and a writer by passion, my expertise extends to creating insightful content on topics such as GST, accounts payable, and invoice discounting.. Read more

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Quick Summary

Logistics and supply chain management have similarities but differ in scope, focus, and components. Logistics handles movement & storage, while supply chain manages end-to-end processes. Key differences include scope, function, components, time frame, and focus.

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