A logistics operation is more than movement between two points. Preparation connects goods, people, locations, resources, documents and approvals required at each stage.
Describe the goods and volumes
Specify the nature, quantities, dimensions, weight, packaging, fragility and particular constraints. Information must be accurate to assess suitable resources and handling.
Document locations and access
Origin, destination, access times, contacts, traffic constraints, loading areas and reception conditions influence feasibility. An address alone does not describe an operation.
- Loading and unloading access.
- People authorised to hand over and receive.
- Time or site constraints.
Allocate responsibilities
Clarify who prepares, packs, checks, loads, supplies documents, authorises departure, follows the operation and approves handover. Third-party dependencies should be visible before planning.
Prepare documents and tracking
Package lists, references, instructions, authorisations, handover records and any condition evidence should be defined for the operation. Documents containing private data remain protected.
Plan changes, incidents and handover
Define contacts, alert thresholds, possible decisions and information to retain in the event of delay, inaccessible site, visible damage or change. Closure relies on a verifiable handover.
Key points
- Describe goods, volumes and packaging precisely.
- Check locations, access and owners.
- Prepare documents, tracking and handover evidence.