Chapter 27: Maritime Logistics

In previous chapters of this book, logistics and logistics management have been discussed. General customer requirements drive carrier offerings, setting both the pace and the direction. The management of the supply chain has been well established by those outside the maritime industry. Logistics in the maritime field has not developed as might be expected from the progress seen in other modes of transport. Ocean carriers, in general, have lagged in adoption of supply chain activities. While ocean carriers now encounter demands quite different from those faced 10 years ago, they have not played a leading role in supply chain management (SCM) to the extent that many hoped.