Logistics Glossary
Logistics Glossary (A–Z)
Learn the most important logistics, warehousing, shipping, fulfillment, and supply chain terms used by 3PL providers and eCommerce businesses.
Logistics Terms A–Z
This glossary explains common logistics and fulfillment terminology in simple language. Whether you're new to eCommerce or an experienced supply chain professional, these definitions will help you better understand the logistics industry.
A
API
Application Programming Interface used to connect eCommerce platforms with fulfillment software.
ASN (Advanced Shipping Notice)
A notification sent before inventory arrives at a warehouse.
B
Barcode
A machine-readable code used for product identification and inventory tracking.
Backorder
An order placed for an item that is temporarily out of stock.
C
COD (Cash on Delivery)
A payment method where customers pay when receiving the package.
Cross-Docking
A logistics process where products move directly from receiving to shipping with little or no storage.
D
Distribution Center
A warehouse designed for rapid order fulfillment and product distribution.
DIM Weight
Dimensional weight used by carriers to calculate shipping charges.
E
ETA
Estimated Time of Arrival.
ERP
Enterprise Resource Planning software used to manage business operations.
F
Fulfillment
The complete process of receiving, storing, picking, packing, and shipping customer orders.
FTL
Full Truckload shipping.
G
GPS Tracking
Technology used to monitor shipment locations.
H
Hub
A central logistics facility used to consolidate shipments.
I
Inventory
Products stored for future sales.
J
Just-in-Time (JIT)
An inventory strategy that minimizes stock by receiving goods only when needed.
K
Kitting
Combining multiple products into one package before shipping.
L
Last-Mile Delivery
The final stage of shipping from the distribution center to the customer.
LTL
Less Than Truckload shipping.
M
MOQ
Minimum Order Quantity.
O
OMS
Order Management System.
P
Pick & Pack
The warehouse process of selecting items and preparing them for shipment.
R
Reverse Logistics
The movement of returned goods from customers back to the warehouse.
S
SKU
Stock Keeping Unit used to identify products.
Supply Chain
The complete network involved in producing and delivering products.
W
Warehouse Management System (WMS)
Software used to manage warehouse operations and inventory.
3PL
Third-Party Logistics provider responsible for warehousing, fulfillment, transportation, and logistics services.
4PL
Fourth-Party Logistics provider responsible for managing multiple logistics partners and the overall supply chain.
Need Help Choosing a 3PL?
Compare trusted logistics providers and find the best fulfillment partner for your business.
Request a Free Quote
Comments
Post a Comment