How Global Supply Chain Management Has Changed: a 3PL veteran recounts how domestic logistics is morphing into worldwide supply chains

摘要

Ten years ago, the typical supply chain for manufacturing companies was domestic. Today - thanks to the migration of manufacturing to China and other lower-cost countries - it's just as likely to be global. I've been in logistics for more than 20 years. In that time, I've learned that some degree of change goes with the territory. However, I can honestly say that thanks to globalization, the past decade has included the most transition - and some of the most pronounced industry-wide changes of heart - I've ever seen. Here are just a few of the reasons why this is no longer your father's - or even your older brother's - supply chain. Back when many manufacturers' supply chains spanned no more than a few hundred miles, it wasn't unusual for automotive OEMs and other manufacturers to keep a mere day or two of safety stock on hand. After all, many of their lead times were measured in hours. Most of their transportation providers were known quantities. And, the routes and infrastructure they used were highly familiar and time-tested.