Supply Chain & Logistics Glossary
Supply chain and logistics professionals speak their own language. Here’s your guide to cracking the code.
What Is Bulk Storage?
Bulk storage refers to storing goods in large quantities without individual packaging, often in bins, silos or tanks.
What Is a Carousel?
A carousel is a vertical storage system with rotating shelves or bins that bring items to the operator for picking.
What Is a Certificate of Origin?
A certificate of origin is a document that certifies the country of origin for goods, often required for international trade and customs purposes.
What Is a Chain Conveyor?
A chain conveyor is a type of conveyor system that moves items along a continuous chain, suitable for heavy loads or rugged environments.
What Are Containers?
Containers are standardized cargo units used for transporting goods via ships, trucks or trains. Containers come in various sizes (e.g., 20-foot, 40-foot) and are essential for efficient global trade.
What Is Container-on-Flatcar (COFC)?
Container-on-flatcar (COFC) is a rail transport method that loads containers directly onto flatcars, allowing for seamless intermodal transportation.
What Are Containerships?
Containerships are large vessels specifically designed to carry shipping containers across oceans and between ports.
What Are Conveyors?
Conveyors are mechanized systems used to move goods or materials within a facility. They include various types such as belt conveyors, roller conveyors and chain conveyors.
What Is Cross-Docking?
Cross-docking is a logistics strategy that transfers goods directly from inbound to outbound transportation without long-term storage, reducing handling and inventory costs.
What Is Cycle Counting?
Cycle counting is the process of regularly counting a subset of inventory items to maintain accuracy without conducting a full physical inventory.
