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 glossary and supply chain terminology

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

Popular posts from this blog

Best 3PL for eBay Sellers

Is CJdropshipping free to join?

Leading E-Commerce Marketplaces in Germany

Why ShipBob Is One of the Best Fulfillment Partners for Growing eCommerce Brands

Shopify Fulfillment Guide – Everything You Need to Know

Powerful eCommerce Integrations

Best 3PL Fulfillment Services for eCommerce in 2026

Expand Your Business with SUNSKY