Physical Distribution is a distinct but integral part of business logistics, involving all those activities relating to the physical movement of goods from the factory to the consumer. Recently, the concept has been expanded to supply chain management which enables better customer relationship with smooth supply of goods. This introductory text is focused on the essential concepts, tools and strategies that comprise Distribution Management. It emphasizes the idea that distribution management is an effective marketing strategy and a potent competitive tool. Defining the concept of physical distribution in the initial chapter, the book then describes in detail the objectives, functions and components of all the activity centres of physical distribution in the Indian context, from a systems approach. An exclusive chapter is devoted to transportation functions, highlighting the features of interstate movement of goods and the legal procedures related to them. Sufficient coverage is also given to related topics such as distribution control, performance evaluation and organization of physical distribution, besides the 'trade-off' concept. The book, with its wide coverage of topics, should prove to be of immense value to undergraduate students in Business Administration and Business Management.

This comprehensive overview of logistics provides a conceptual framework for understanding the logistics system, the integration of its basic elements, and its relationship to the overall firm. Discusses both manufacturing and physical distribution, new technologies in each of these areas, and how they related to each other and to the company. New topics covered range from approaches to strategic logistics planning and multi-location inventory planning, to international logistics issues and future directions. Includes case studies.

Textbook on management functions in respect of the efficiency of the distribution process in the UK - covers implications of technological change, operational research and computers in distribution, management information systems, budgeting and control systems, storage operations, freight transport, trends in delivery operations, vehicle maintenance, safety measures, etc. Bibliography pp. 555 and 556 and references.

Designed for students, young managers and seasoned practitioners alike, this handbook explains the nuts and bolts of the modern logistics and distribution world in plain language. Illustrated throughout, this second edition includes new chapters on areas previously not covered, such as: intermodal transport; benchmarking; environmental matters; and vehicle and depot security.