Definition
The full network of organisations, people, activities and information that moves a product from raw material to the end customer — suppliers, factories, freight carriers, ports, warehouses, distributors and retailers. For a South African importer a typical chain runs: overseas factory, origin port, ocean leg, Durban or Cape Town port, customs clearance, inland transport to a distribution centre, then delivery to stores or customers. Managing it well means balancing cost, speed and reliability at every link.
Frequently asked questions
What is Supply Chain?
The full network of organisations, people, activities and information that moves a product from raw material to the end customer — suppliers, factories, freight carriers, ports, warehouses, distributors and retailers. For a South African importer a typical chain runs: overseas factory, origin port, ocean leg, Durban or Cape Town port, customs clearance, inland transport to a distribution centre, then delivery to stores or customers. Managing it well means balancing cost, speed and reliability at every link.
Which glossary terms are related to Supply Chain?
Supply Chain is a supply chain & warehousing term in the South African import/export industry. Related terms in the same area include 3PL (Third-Party Logistics), 4PL (Fourth-Party Logistics), ABC Analysis, Bonded Logistics, Bonded Warehouse (SOS/OS) — each has its own plain-English definition in the TradeCaravan glossary.