Inbound Logistics

Abstract

In this chapter, we discuss selected concepts and decision support models for inbound logistics. Inbound logistics comprises all activities that secure supply for manufacturing, assembly, and retail operations. The associated information and materials flow involve different strategic and operational decisions that will influence transportation, handling and inventory costs. They depend on various parameters, such as the variety and volumes of material requirements, the supplier base and respective locations. Section 11.1 introduces the basic concepts, key performance indicators, and problem parameters. Section 11.2 presents advanced decision support models for the design, implementation and operation of the concepts. Section 11.3 includes a case study. Selected state-of-the-art research and recent advances are discussed in Sect. 11.4.