Physical distribution refers to the process of transporting finished goods from a manufacturer to the end customer, encompassing logistics activities such as warehousing, inventory management, and order fulfillment. In contrast, materials management focuses on the planning and control of raw materials and components needed for production, ensuring that materials are available at the right time and place to support manufacturing processes. While physical distribution emphasizes the flow of products to customers, materials management is concerned with the procurement, storage, and handling of materials within the production cycle. Both are essential for efficient supply chain management, but they address different aspects of the overall process.
Transporting and warehousing are some are some of the stages that are involved in the physical distribution process.
Composite materials are made up of two or more constituent materials with different physical or chemical properties. They can be designed to have specific combinations of properties such as strength, stiffness, and weight. Common physical features include a matrix material that binds the different components together, and reinforcing materials like fibers or particles that enhance the overall performance of the composite.
Density is a physical property that depends on the mass of a substance and its volume. It is independent of temperature but can change with different materials. Different materials have different densities due to variations in their mass and volume.
The lustre is a physical property of materials.
Heterogeneous physical refers to a system where the components or substances within it are not uniform or of the same kind. This means that there are different types of materials or substances present within the system, displaying varying physical properties or characteristics.
W. Konen has written: 'Kennzahlen in der Distribution' -- subject(s): Management, Materials management, Physical distribution of goods
The two components of distribution are supply chain management and physical distribution. Supply chain management is the process of managing all activities required to transform raw materials into finished product for consumption or sale. Physical distribution involves the process of moving product from the finish line to the end user.
Omar Keith Helferich has written: 'Securing the supply chain' -- subject(s): Business logistics, Emergency management, Management, Materials management, Physical distribution of goods
Ronald H. Ballou has written: 'Basic business logistics' -- subject- s -: Management, Physical distribution of goods, Shipment of goods, Materials handling 'Time delay effects in computerised physical distribution systems'
Tasks in physical distribution include - transport - warehousing - inventory - order processing
Physical distribution (as opposed to marketing or sales channels of distribution)includes the business functions of warehousing and outbound transportation/traffic to customersLogistics includes physical distribution functions, and adds: inbound transportation/traffic; customer service; finished goods inventory management
Edward W. SMykay has written: 'Physical distribution management'
Because wholesalers buy in large quantities and delivering to customers in smaller amounts, they are able to perform physical distribution activities more effectively, including materials handling, warehousing, and inventory management.
Physical distribution management solves transport and distribution problems by streamlining logistics, optimizing routes, and ensuring timely delivery of goods. Businesses can improve efficiency and reduce costs by using real-time tracking and automated scheduling tools. Delta Sales App enhances this process with advanced distribution management features, helping companies monitor field staff, track deliveries, and maintain accurate records for better decision-making.
Disadvantages of physical distribution include high transportation costs, which can significantly impact overall profitability. Additionally, physical distribution can lead to delays in delivery, affecting customer satisfaction. Inventory management challenges may arise, resulting in either excess stock or stockouts. Finally, physical distribution is subject to various risks, such as damage or loss of goods during transit.
objectives of physical distribution
Physical distribution is the set of activities concerned with efficient movement of finished goods from the end of the production operation to the consumer. Physical distribution takes place within numerous wholesaling and retailing distribution channels, and includes such important decision areas as customer service, inventory control, materials handling, protective packaging, order procession, transportation, warehouse site selection, and warehousing. Physical distribution is part of a larger process called "distribution," which includes wholesale and retail marketing, as well the physical movement of products.