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- B2B LogisticsPlanning and execution of the movement and storage of goods between businesses such as manufacturers, wholesalers, distribution centers, and retail chains. Orders are handled in case or pallet quantities, follow routing guides, and require delivery appointments at docks. Transactions rely on documents and data exchanges including purchase orders, advance ship notices, bills of lading, packing lists, and EDI messages. Common transport modes include less than truckload, full truckload, intermodal, air, and ocean, with performance tracked through on time delivery, in full rates, and damage ratios.
- B2C LogisticsPlanning and execution of order fulfillment and transport from a seller or fulfillment center to an end consumer. Orders are processed at the each unit level, packed for parcel networks, and labeled with carrier compliant barcodes and tracking numbers. Delivery is handled by parcel or courier services with status events from acceptance through delivery, and returns are processed using return merchandise authorization and labeled drop off or pickup methods. Performance is tracked with on time delivery, first attempt success, and defect rates such as damage or wrong item.
- BackhaulThe return trip of a truck, container, or rail equipment from a delivery area toward its origin or next base. When a paying shipment moves on that return leg, it is recorded as a backhaul load with a bill of lading and standard tracking events. Rates often differ from headhaul and reflect lane balance, equipment type, and required accessorials. Backhaul moves are arranged through routing guides or load tenders and can be paired with drop trailer or consolidation programs.
- BackorderOrdered quantity that cannot be shipped at release because available inventory is insufficient. The order or line remains open in the system with a backordered status and a recorded quantity, and it is released when inventory is allocated from receipts or transfers. Backorders can be created at the item line or entire order level, and may be split so available lines ship first while the remainder waits. Reporting ties backorders to promised dates, fill rate calculations, and aging to show how long quantities remain outstanding.
- Balanced Inventory ApproachA planning method that sets inventory levels to meet stated service targets while controlling holding and ordering costs. Parameters include safety stock based on demand and lead time variability, reorder points that cover lead time demand, and order quantities derived from methods such as economic order quantity or fixed lot sizes. The approach is applied by SKU and location, references data on forecast error and supplier performance, and is reviewed on a defined cadence to adjust settings when inputs change.
- Barcode ScanningThe capture and decoding of machine readable symbols that encode identifiers and data for items, locations, and logistics units. Handheld, fixed mount, or ring scanners read one dimensional and two dimensional symbologies such as Code 128, Code 39, GS1 128, and Data Matrix, then transmit the decoded string to connected software. In warehouses the scan confirms steps like receiving, putaway, picking, packing, and shipping, and records lot, serial, or SSCC values when present. The system validates the scan against expected data, timestamps the event, and stores exceptions for review.
- BarcodingThe practice of assigning and printing machine readable symbols to identify items, locations, and logistics units. Barcoding relies on defined data structures and symbologies such as Code 128, GS1 128, Data Matrix, and QR, and links each symbol to master records like GTIN, lot, serial, or SSCC. In warehouse and transport flows, labels are applied and scanned at receiving, putaway, picking, packing, and shipping to record events and validate accuracy. Programs specify label content, placement, print quality, and verification methods so scans decode reliably.
- Batch PickingA picking method where a worker or system collects items for multiple orders in one tour using a combined pick list. Orders are grouped by shared SKUs or nearby locations, and instructions are given by RF, voice, or lights with each pick confirmed by scan. After the tour, items are sorted to individual orders using a cart with compartments, a put wall, or automated sortation that reads barcodes. Settings define batch size, route limits, and item constraints such as weight or hazardous materials, and the system records exceptions like shorts for reconciliation.
- Big and Bulky ProductAn item whose size, weight, or shape falls outside standard parcel handling and often cannot ride typical conveyors. These goods may require floor stacking, oversized rack locations, team lifts, forklifts, or added protective packaging and bracing. Transportation commonly uses less than truckload, full truckload, or final mile services with options like appointment scheduling, liftgate, or room of choice delivery when specified. Records for these items include exact dimensions, weight, orientation, and handling notes so space, equipment, and routing can be planned.
- Bill of LadingA carrier document that acknowledges receipt of goods and states the terms of carriage. It identifies the shipper, consignee, origin, destination, description of goods, piece count, weight, and any handling instructions or accessorials. In ocean shipping a bill of lading may be negotiable and can serve as a document of title, while in motor transport it typically functions as a non negotiable receipt and contract. The bill number supports tracking, invoicing, and proof of delivery, and the document may be issued in paper or electronic form.
- Blind ShipmentA shipment arranged so that identifying information about the shipper, the consignee, or both is withheld from one of the parties. The carrier uses a blind bill of lading or a corrected bill of lading that shows substitute names or addresses while keeping the true pickup and delivery details in its internal record. Instructions must be provided to the carrier before pickup, and additional documentation and fees may apply under the carrier tariff. Tracking numbers and the bill of lading number are used to match proof of delivery and invoices to the correct shipment record.
- Blind ShippingA shipping arrangement in which the shipper’s identity is hidden from the consignee or end customer. The carrier or logistics provider issues labels and documents that show a substitute ship from name while retaining the true origin in internal records. Setup requires instructions before pickup and may use a blind bill of lading or a corrected bill of lading, along with any carrier forms. Fees and handling rules are set in the carrier tariff, and delivery is referenced by tracking or bill numbers.
- Blockchain in LogisticsUse of distributed ledger technology to record shipment events, documents, and custody handoffs across multiple parties. Each participant keeps a synchronized copy of the ledger, and entries are time stamped, cryptographically linked records that are difficult to alter after confirmation. Smart contracts can encode business rules such as release of a bill of lading, temperature alerts from sensors, or payment triggers tied to delivery milestones. Typical data includes bills of lading, purchase order and ASN references, transfer of custody scans, and IoT readings, with connections to EDI and API systems for exchange. Adoption depends on governance structure, data quality, privacy controls, and the legal treatment of digital documents in the relevant jurisdiction.
- Bonded CarrierA transportation company authorized by a customs authority to move in bond shipments under a financial bond. It carries goods between ports of entry, bonded warehouses, and foreign trade zones without duties or taxes being paid until formal entry and release. The carrier maintains an active bond, uses in bond control numbers and manifests, and follows custody and recordkeeping rules set by the authority. Movements end when customs confirms arrival and the entry is filed or export is completed.
- Bonded InventoryImported goods held under customs control in a bonded warehouse or foreign trade zone with duties and taxes deferred. The items are not entered into domestic commerce and may be stored, repacked, or otherwise handled as permitted by the governing authority. Release for consumption requires a customs entry and payment or determination of duties and fees, or the goods may be exported or destroyed under supervision. Records include bond reference numbers, item identifiers, quantities, and status so balances can be reconciled to filings.
- Bonded WarehouseA storage facility authorized by customs to hold imported goods in bond with duties and taxes deferred until release. The site operates under a bond and documented procedures, with access controls and inventory records that reconcile quantities to customs filings. Goods may be stored, inspected, relabeled, or repacked as permitted by regulations, but they are not entered into domestic commerce while in bond. Release occurs when a customs entry is filed and duties and fees are paid, or when the goods are exported or destroyed under supervision.
- Break Bulk CargoFreight that is not in containers and is loaded as individual pieces or units such as bags, bales, crates, drums, steel, timber, or machinery. It is handled with forklifts, cranes, slings, or nets, and may be palletized or crated to provide lifting points and protection. Shipments are stowed in the holds or on the decks of general cargo or multipurpose vessels, with plans that state piece count, weight, dimensions, and lashing requirements. Charges are commonly rated by weight or measurement, and documentation includes a bill of lading for each lot or consignment.
- Bulk CargoCommodities shipped unpackaged in large quantities and loaded directly into vessel holds, barges, railcars, or tankers. Dry bulk includes grains, coal, ore, fertilizer, and cement, while liquid bulk includes crude oil, refined products, and chemicals. Handling uses conveyors, grabs, loaders, pumps, and pipelines, with stowage plans that specify grades, segregation, draft limits, and trimming to maintain vessel stability. Freight is rated by weight or volume using units such as metric tons, barrels, or cubic meters and is documented by bills of lading and cargo manifests.
- BundlingThe practice of grouping two or more distinct items to sell or ship together as one unit. Components are picked as separate SKUs and combined in a single pack or carton, either prebuilt as a bundle or assembled on demand at packing. Order and warehouse systems store a bundle definition that lists component SKUs and quantities so inventory is relieved per component and documents show the bundle and its parts. Bundling differs from kitting because the component items keep their original SKUs rather than creating a new SKU.