Improvement proposal for the logistics process of importing SMEs in Peru through lean, inventories, and change management

Abstract

The logistics processes of companies seek an adequate supply of merchandize, streamline processes, reduce costs, and distribution of their products to the customer in an efficient manner and allow them to develop corrective planning in order to be competitive in the market. However, these processes are less efficient in importing companies of the SME sector. Therefore, this article proposes the application of a change management model to improve the logistics process that generates a real transformation. This model is structured in three phases: first, pre-Implementation, which refers to participatory leadership and resistance to change; second, implementation of logistics management; and third, sustainability of the model over time. The model was validated in a Peruvian SME importer of household goods, whose satisfactory results implied an increase in available storage capacity, reduction of logistics costs, satisfaction of change, and organizational culture.