This specialized course focuses exclusively on applying lean principles to logistics operations within broader supply chain contexts. Participants will learn specific techniques for optimizing transportation, warehousing, and inventory management through lean methodologies. The curriculum emphasizes practical tools for reducing lead times, improving flow, eliminating waste, and enhancing value in logistics processes. Through interactive exercises and real-world case studies, attendees will develop comprehensive understanding of how lean thinking transforms logistics performance. This course provides immediately applicable strategies for creating more efficient and responsive logistics systems.
Lean Logistics for Supply Chain Operations
Supply Chain Management and Procurement
October 25, 2025
Introduction
Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Apply lean principles specifically to logistics operations
- Identify and eliminate waste in transportation and warehousing
- Design lean transportation networks and routes
- Implement visual management in logistics environments
- Optimize inventory levels using lean principles
- Improve logistics flow and reduce lead times
- Develop performance metrics for lean logistics
- Create continuous improvement plans for logistics
- Manage change in logistics transformation
Target Audience
- Logistics Managers and Directors
- Transportation Managers
- Distribution Supervisors
- Supply Chain Planners
- Fleet Operations Managers
- Third-Party Logistics Providers
- Inventory Control Specialists
Methodology
- Logistics value stream mapping exercises
- Transportation optimization simulations
- Warehouse layout design workshops
- Case studies of lean logistics success
- Group problem-solving activities
- Gemba walks in logistics facilities
Personal Impact
- Enhanced skills in logistics waste identification
- Improved analytical capabilities for logistics optimization
- Stronger problem-solving skills in logistics contexts
- Increased ability to lead logistics improvement projects
- Better understanding of inventory-flow relationships
- Enhanced change management capabilities
Organizational Impact
- Reduced transportation and warehousing costs
- Improved customer service through reliable logistics
- Reduced inventory carrying costs
- Enhanced logistics flexibility and responsiveness
- Standardized and efficient logistics processes
- Sustainable logistics performance improvement
Course Outline
Lean Logistics Fundamentals
Logistics Waste Identification- The eight wastes in logistics operations
- Transportation-specific waste categories
- Warehousing inefficiencies and waste
- Measuring waste in logistics processes
- Flow creation in logistics networks
- Pull systems in logistics
- Perfection pursuit in logistics service
Lean Transportation Management
Transportation Optimization- Route optimization and load consolidation
- Milk run design and implementation
- Mode selection and intermodal optimization
- Transportation management system utilization
- Lean carrier selection and evaluation
- Collaborative relationships with carriers
- Performance measurement and improvement
Lean Warehousing Operations
Warehouse Layout and Flow- Lean warehouse design principles
- Product slotting and storage strategies
- Cross-docking and flow-through operations
- Material handling equipment optimization
- Standardized work for receiving and shipping
- Pick path optimization and batch sizing
- Visual management in warehouse operations
Inventory Management and Flow
Lean Inventory Strategies- Right-sizing inventory buffers
- Pull-based replenishment systems
- Cycle time reduction strategies
- Inventory accuracy and control
- Demand-driven logistics approaches
- Information sharing and visibility
- Collaborative planning and forecasting
Performance Measurement and Improvement
Lean Metrics- Key performance indicators for lean logistics
- Total cost measurement approaches
- Service level monitoring and improvement
- Kaizen events in logistics
- Problem-solving methodologies
- Sustaining lean improvements
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