Unit 1043: Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management

1. Introduction to Global Logistics

• Definition and scope of global logistics
• Importance in international trade and economic development
• Key players: manufacturers, suppliers, logistics providers, carriers, customs authorities
• Impact of globalization on supply chains
  • Increased complexity
  • Expanded geographic reach
  • Technological advancements

2. Modes of Transportation in Global Logistics

• Overview of transportation modes:
  • Air transport
  • Sea transport
  • Road transport
  • Rail transport
• Advantages and disadvantages of each mode
  • Speed, cost, capacity, reliability, environmental impact
• Factors influencing mode choice
  • Nature of goods
  • Distance and geography
  • Cost considerations
  • Time sensitivity
  • Infrastructure availability

3. Global Supply Chain Management

• Components of global supply chains
  • Sourcing and procurement
  • Production and manufacturing
  • Distribution and delivery
• Integration of information systems
  • Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
  • Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
  • Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
• Coordination and collaboration among global partners
• Challenges in managing global supply chains
  • Cultural differences
  • Currency fluctuations
  • Lead times and delays

4. International Trade Regulations and Compliance

• Regulatory environment overview
• Customs regulations and procedures
• Trade agreements and their impact (e.g., WTO, NAFTA, EU trade policies)
• Tariffs, duties, and taxes
• Compliance requirements
  • Documentation
  • Import/export controls
  • Sanctions and embargoes
• Role of compliance in risk mitigation

5. Warehousing and Inventory Management in Global Logistics

• Role and functions of warehouses
• Types of warehousing (e.g., bonded, distribution centers, cross-docking)
• Inventory management techniques
  • Just-In-Time (JIT)
  • Economic Order Quantity (EOQ)
  • Safety stock and reorder points
• Warehouse operations and storage systems
  • Layout planning
  • Material handling equipment
• Technology in warehousing
  • Automation and robotics
  • Barcode and RFID systems

6. Global Logistics Network Design

• Principles of network design
• Network optimization techniques
• Location analysis and site selection
• Facility layout planning
• Strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs
  • Consolidation centers
  • Hub-and-spoke models
  • Outsourcing and third-party logistics (3PL)

7. Risk Management in Global Logistics

• Types of risks in global logistics
  • Supply chain disruptions
  • Natural disasters
  • Geopolitical risks
  • Security threats and theft
• Risk identification and assessment methods
• Risk mitigation strategies
  • Diversification of suppliers
  • Contingency planning
  • Insurance and security measures
• Business continuity and resilience planning

8. Sustainable Practices in Global Logistics

• Importance of sustainability in logistics
• Green logistics initiatives
  • Carbon footprint reduction
  • Use of alternative energy sources (e.g., electric vehicles, biofuels)
• Waste management and recycling
• Environmental regulations and standards
• Corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship
• Case studies of sustainable logistics practices