This unit provides the underlying knowledge for the movement of goods in a national and international context. It addresses the responses of the transport operator to the characteristics of goods and places the latter’s movements in the context of the total logistics concept. Choice of mode, vehicle and route are integral and the external and internal issues relating to modal infrastructures are featured. A further key element is the location of infrastructure, and the operation of interchanges together with their supporting information links.

This unit provides the fundamental knowledge required by managers in the logistics business sector involved in the flow of materials through a production process. It covers production planning as part of the logistics system and how it fits into a company’s supply chain strategy. This unit views the logistics of production planning processes in terms of the creation of value to the customers, delivering sustainable competitive advantage and minimising waste.

This unit formulates and applies principles and practices of supply chain management to retailing focusing on retail logistics, nationally and globally. Key elements are the ways in which changes in society, business organisation and retail structures have impacted upon logistics activity in retailing.

This unit covers the role and strategy of sourcing and the procurement processes that follow. It addresses the integration of these processes within the overall corporate strategy and covers the measurement and use of performance and financial controls that aid efficient and effective supplier management.

This unit covers the role of the warehouse and how warehouse strategy fits into the logistics strategy. The key elements are operational functioning of a warehouse, its technology and effective control. The unit aims to deliver the understanding and competence of those key elements of warehouse management practice that are fundamental to both commercial and non-commercial organisations.

This unit deals with the complex issues of the identification and management of risk inherent in an international supply chain and how government trade policies/promotion and Inter governmental regulation impact on international business practice. The key issues involved in developing a global logistics strategy and delivering the competence necessary to implement and manage a global logistics operation are also addressed. A key element is the contribution to the successful fulfilment of the broader commercial and financial issues associated with international commerce and trade.

This unit deals with the issues of identifying the demand for products and then balancing it with the appropriate supply. The key issues involved with determining the level of demand are addressed and aspects of supply planning are then explored, highlighting the need for different strategies for different products. The unit also covers the use of inventory to balance the flows between supply and demand, together with the management issues surrounding the attainment of a consensus supply chain plan.

The aim of this unit is to provide candidates with the knowledge to plan, implement and manage a supply chain network in which products flow from their source to the end user. It deals with the complex issues of identifying the network requirements for different types of facilities based upon cost and service criteria.