The Differences Between Inbound and Outbound Logistics

At Eleets 3PL, we understand the importance of both types of logistics. We offer experience in both outbound and inbound logistics to companies in and around Santa Ana, CA, helping these businesses grow and adapt to changes that can come rapidly. Having a good grasp on both types of logistics is key if you want to make it in a competitive industry, but we understand that not every business owner can learn everything there is to know about inbound and outbound logistics, nor can every company take the time and expense to teach employees about the best logistics practices. That's why partnering with our company and putting our logistics expertise to the test is your best option.

Inbound Logistics

Inbound logistics generally covers what's coming in, as the name implies. It's the movement of materials, parts, or products to you, as opposed to something that you're shipping out. This is primarily an interaction between your company and your supplier. Inbound logistics can also cover different parts of the manufacturing process, including sourcing raw materials and transporting them to where they need to go. If something is moving from somewhere else and into your warehouse or distribution center, that's usually considered a part of inbound logistics.

As e-commerce growth has continued, the rising number of returns could also be considered a part of inbound logistics in a way. If you buy a shirt online and it doesn't fit, you return it. Then the company you bought from has to keep track of it, know when it's come in, and get the product back into inventory. As consumers buy more products, and different types of products, online, knowing how to best handle returns coming into a warehouse or fulfillment center will become an even more valuable skill.

Outbound Logistics

Outbound logistics primarily covers the interactions between your company and your customers. Customers order a final product from you. You process that order. You pick the right inventory out and ship it. Then your customer accepts delivery of it. This is the outbound logistics process in a nutshell.

The network for outbound logistics can differ from the one used for inbound logistics, and this type of logistics will require a different type of expertise. You need to know what kinds of products you need and when. You need to maintain vehicles that can transport your items, or partner with someone who will. You need to take special packaging precautions if your finished product is fragile. Working with an experienced third-party logistics company like ours can take some of the guesswork out of this and help you make the most out of both your inbound and outbound logistics networks. You focus on your business, and we'll cover the rest.

Your Logistics Partner in Santa Ana, CA

If you're looking for ways to improve warehouse management and optimize inbound and outbound logistics at your facilities, we're ready to help. Contact Eleets 3PL today and see how our logistics experts can help your business grow while potentially saving money and becoming far more efficient than ever before!