Logistics activities are widely prevalent in the socio-economic sector, with a relatively complex system that is challenging to categorize uniformly. However, based on the differing recipients of logistics services, the varying spatial scope of logistics services, and the distinct objectives of logistics, it can be divided into the following main types.
(Macro logistics and micro logistics)
Logistics can be divided into macro logistics and micro logistics based on their practical value. Macro logistics refers to the logistics activities of the overall social reproduction, industries, or large groups. These logistics activities have a more comprehensive and global impact on a country. Examples include social logistics, national economic logistics, and international logistics. Micro logistics pertains to the specific, actual logistics activities carried out or required by consumers and producers, tailored to particular customers and products. This includes supply chain logistics, sales logistics, recycling logistics, waste logistics, production logistics, and corporate logistics.
Supply Chain Logistics, Production Logistics, and Sales Logistics
Forward logistics can be divided into supply logistics, production logistics, and sales logistics based on the role of logistics. Activities that provide raw materials, components, or other items to manufacturing enterprises are referred to as supply logistics. Production logistics refers to the internal movement and storage of raw materials, semi-finished products, finished products, etc. within the manufacturing process. Production logistics must synchronize with the production process; otherwise, the production process may halt or incur additional costs. Sales logistics arise when items move from manufacturing and sales enterprises to the end-users.
(3) Regional Logistics, Domestic Logistics, and International Logistics
Logistics can be categorized into regional, domestic, and international logistics based on the spatial scope of service. Regional logistics refers to the logistics within a country's boundaries, divided into specific areas based on administrative districts or geographical locations. The rational planning and layout of regional logistics not only impact the cost, speed, and efficiency within the designated area but also significantly influence the overall logistics level of a nation. Domestic logistics involves the comprehensive planning and relevant policies and regulations formulated to serve the overall goal of national economic development. This includes the planning of logistics infrastructure and supporting facilities, traffic regulations, investment and tax policies, as well as the standardization of various logistics equipment and documents. International logistics pertains to the movement of goods between different countries, which is more complex, challenging, and risky compared to domestic logistics.
(Social Logistics, Industry Logistics, and Corporate Logistics)
Logistics can be categorized into social, industry, and corporate logistics, based on the nature of the logistics system. Social logistics refers to the collective term for external logistics activities of enterprises, which falls under the macro logistics category. Industry logistics denotes the effective collaboration in logistics operations and management among enterprises within the same industry to achieve logistics efficiency and low costs. Corporate logistics pertains to the movement of goods within a single enterprise.
(5) First-party logistics, second-party logistics, and third-party logistics
Logistics can be categorized into First-Party, Second-Party, and Third-Party Logistics, depending on the service provider. Logistics services provided by the item supplier are known as First-Party Logistics, while those provided by the item's demander are referred to as Second-Party Logistics. Logistics services offered by intermediaries outside of the provider and demander are often called Third-Party Logistics. With the integration of production, Third-Party Logistics is becoming a major component of modern logistics and one of the main trends in the industry's development. Additionally, logistics can be divided into Forward Logistics and Reverse Logistics based on the direction of item flow; and into Recyclable Logistics and Waste Logistics based on the characteristics of items flowing from demanders to suppliers.
