The question ‘What is logistics?’ cannot just be answered with ‘transport and warehousing’ – it encompasses much more. Logistics is the backbone of modern economic systems and ensures that goods, information and services are managed and moved efficiently. Whether in industry, trade or e-commerce, logistics ensures that goods, information and services are available at the right place, at the right time and in the desired quality.

Logistics is a central component of modern economic systems and plays a decisive role in ensuring efficient processes along the entire value chain. As an interdisciplinary specialisation, it combines technical, business management and information technology elements. The aim of logistics is to provide the right goods, information and services in the right quantity, at the right time, in the right place, in the right quality, at the right price and for the right user – a principle that is referred to in the specialist literature as the ‘Seven Rights’.

Definition and delimitation

If you ask yourself ‘What is logistics?’, you will realise that logistics goes far beyond the mere transport of goods. Logistics refers to the holistic planning, control, implementation and optimisation of all material, information and goods flows within and between organisations. The aim is to provide goods and services efficiently – at the right time, in the right quantity, at the right place and at optimum cost. This principle is also known as the ‘Seven Rights of Logistics’.

In contrast to supply chain management (SCM), which deals strategically with the entire supply chain, logistics focuses more on operational implementation within individual stages of the value chain. Both terms are closely linked and are often combined in degree programmes and professional fields.

Historical development

The term logistics has its origins in ancient Greek (‘logistikē’) and originally referred to the practical art of calculation. In its modern form, it was coined during Napoleonic warfare, where logistics encompassed military supplies, warehousing and transport planning. In the second half of the 20th century, the term increasingly found its way into industry and developed into a central element of economic processes. Today, logistics encompasses far more than transport and storage and has become a complex, globally networked cross-sectional function.

Sub-areas of logistics

Logistics is divided into various sub-areas along the value chain. These specialisations form the basis of many logistics-oriented degree courses at technical universities such as TU Darmstadt.

Procurement logistics

In the field of procurement logistics, the focus is on the needs-based supply of companies with raw materials, semi-finished products and operating resources. In addition to the selection and evaluation of suppliers, it also includes ordering, deadline tracking and ensuring material quality. The aim is to ensure an economical supply while minimising stock levels and ensuring a high level of supply security.

Production logistics

Production logistics coordinates internal material flows and supports the optimised design of production processes. Tasks such as material provision, interim storage, production planning and control fall under this area. Smooth coordination of all production stages ensures high productivity and shortens throughput times at the same

time.

Distribution logistics

Once the products have been completed, distribution logistics is responsible for forwarding them to sales agents, trading partners or end customers. Its core tasks include warehousing, order picking, packaging, despatch and transport control. Particular emphasis is placed on punctuality, cost minimisation and sustainability. Returns management is also part of this area.

Disposal logistics

Disposal logistics deals with the environmentally friendly treatment of production waste, old materials, returns, disused or defective products and packaging material. In addition to proper disposal, the focus is also on the recovery and reuse of recyclable materials. In times of increasing regulatory requirements and the growing importance of sustainability, this area is becoming increasingly relevant.

Logistics application in practice

An illustrative example of the application of logistics processes is the manufacture of a household appliance, such as a toaster. Procurement logistics ensures that the required components are delivered on time. Within production, production logistics plans the material flow and the sequence of production steps. After production, distribution logistics organises delivery to dealers or directly to end customers. Finally, disposal logistics takes over the return of defective devices or the recycling of production residues. Each of these phases is synchronised and requires a high degree of coordination.

Study programmes at TU Darmstadt in the field of logistics

TU Darmstadt offers various study programmes that deal with logistics and supply chain management. These not only impart basic knowledge, but also specialised knowledge in areas such as the digitalisation of logistics processes, sustainable logistics, international supply chains or process optimisation. Possible course contents are:

- Bachelor's lecture ‘Management of value creation networks’

- Bachelor's lecture ‘International logistics systems’

- Master's module ‘Transport Management’

- Master's module ‘Logistics Management’

- Master's module ‘Simulation of Supply Chains’

The interdisciplinary structure of this degree programme takes into account both business management and engineering aspects and enables graduates to take on challenging jobs in industry, trade, consulting or logistics services.

Prospects and career fields

Graduates of a logistics degree programme have a wide range of career opportunities. The fields of activity range from operational planning and control of logistics processes to project management and strategic tasks in global supply chains. Relevant job profiles include

- Logistics manager

- Supply chain manager

- Dispatcher

- Logistics engineer

- Transport planner

- Consultant for SCM and Logistics

- Chief Procurement Officer

- Managing Director

In view of the global challenges posed by digitalisation, sustainability, climate change and geopolitical complexity, the demand for qualified specialists and managers is constantly increasing. A degree programme in this field therefore offers the best prerequisites for a stable and future-oriented career.

Logistics is much more than just the transport of goods. It comprises a complex system of planning, control and optimisation that efficiently links all processes along the value chain. Technological developments, global networking and growing cost pressure are increasing the demands on logistics systems – and therefore also on the expertise of the specialists. The logistics training programme at TU Darmstadt provides a sound basis for meeting these requirements and actively contributing to the design of global value chains.

What is logistics in simple terms?

Logistics is the planning, control and optimisation of the flow of goods, information and values. It ensures that products and services are available at the right time, in the right place and in the right quality.

What are the tasks of logistics?

The tasks of logistics include the procurement, storage, production, distribution and disposal of goods. The aim is to organise processes efficiently and cost-effectively and.

What types of logistics are there?

Logistics is divided into various areas, including

- Procurement logistics (procurement of raw materials and supplies)

- Production logistics (material flow within production)

- Distribution logistics (transport to the end customer)

- Disposal logistics (recycling and waste management)

What can you become if you study logistics?

A logistics degree opens up numerous career paths. Typical professions are

- Logistics manager

- Supply chain manager

- Dispatcher

- Transport and traffic planner

- Logistics consultant

- Logistics engineer

Are skilled workers in logistics in high demand?

Yes, qualified specialists are in high demand in the logistics sector. There are many job opportunities with attractive career prospects, particularly in the fields of digital logistics, supply chain management and sustainable logistics.