While shopping on e-commerce apps or websites, we often come across offerings like ‘same day delivery’, ‘delivery in 2 days’, ‘1 day delivery’ or more. But how do these companies commit to such rapid delivery deadlines and complete the delivery on time? The answer lies in the effective coordination of logistics and supply chain management, the reasons behind the delivery of goods all across the world. Although we use the terms ‘Logistics’ and ‘Supply Chain Management’ interchangeably, they are not identical. Understanding the difference between logistics and supply chain management is essential.
In this blog, we will discuss the meaning of logistics and supply chain management, their key functions, similarities, differences, importance, and how the two concepts differ in scope, focus, and objectives.
What is Logistics and Supply Chain Management?
Most of the businesses today operate in a global marketplace where it becomes extremely important for them to manage both their logistics operations and their supply chains properly to ensure they meet customers’ expectations and stay ahead of their competitors.
Although logistics is a part of supply chain management, the two concepts differ. Let’s explore them in detail below.
What is Logistics?
Logistics is the process of planning, implementing, and controlling the movement and storage of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the final customer.
The key functions of logistics are:
- Transportation – Moving goods from manufacturers to warehouses, distributors, or customers.
- Warehousing – Safe storage of goods before distribution.
- Inventory Management – Ensuring products are available in the right quantity at the right time.
- Packaging – Protecting goods during transit and making them customer-ready.
- Order Fulfilment – Ensuring timely and accurate delivery to customers.
- Reverse Logistics – Handling returns, recycling, and disposal of products.
What is Supply Chain Management?
Supply Chain Management (SCM) is a broader concept that includes not only logistics but also procurement, production, coordination with suppliers, and customer relationship management. It covers the entire network of organisations, people, activities, technology, and resources involved in producing and delivering a product or service.
The key functions of supply chain management are:
- Sourcing and Procurement – Identifying and managing suppliers of raw materials.
- Production Planning – Coordinating manufacturing processes.
- Logistics Management – Overseeing transportation, warehousing, and distribution.
- Supply Chain Coordination – Aligning activities across suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.
- Demand Forecasting – Predicting customer demand to avoid shortages or excess inventory.
- Customer Relationship Management – Ensuring long-term satisfaction and loyalty.
Let’s take an example to understand the two concepts easily.
If a company produces laptops, logistics ensures the laptops are transported safely from the factory to warehouses and then delivered to retail outlets or directly to customers.
For the same laptop company, supply chain management involves everything from sourcing microchips, processors, and display screens, coordinating with manufacturing plants, ensuring logistics for distribution, and finally managing after-sales services.
Also Read: Best Private College for BBA in Logistics & Supply Chain
Difference Between Logistics and Supply Chain Management
By now, you must have understood the major difference between logistics and supply chain management. Now, let’s explore the difference between the two terms across various aspects.
Logistics vs. Supply Chain Management: Highlights
| Aspect | Logistics | Supply Chain Management |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Process of transporting, storing, and delivering goods. | Broader network of processes from raw materials to final delivery and after-sale service. |
| Scope | Limited to movement and storage. | Includes procurement, production, logistics, and customer management. |
| Objective | Ensure timely, safe, and cost-effective delivery. | Maximize overall efficiency and customer satisfaction across the chain. |
| Focus Area | Managing the flow of goods and inventory. | Managing relationships, processes, and integration across organisations. |
| Time | Short-term (daily operations). | Long-term (strategic planning). |
| Involvement | Concerned with a single organisation. | Involves multiple stakeholders: suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, retailers. |
How Logistics and SCM Work Together
Even though logistics and SCM are different, they work in coordination to achieve business goals. On one hand, logistics ensures the right product reaches the right customer at the right time and, on the other hand, SCM ensures the entire process i.e., from sourcing raw materials to customer satisfaction.
For example, in India, during festive seasons, e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Myntra and Flipkart etc. rely heavily on both SCM and logistics. SCM ensures inventory planning, supplier coordination, and warehouse stocking, while logistics handles last-mile delivery to millions of customers.
Careers in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
A career in logistics and supply chain management offers diverse opportunities across industries, such as e-commerce, retail, manufacturing and more. Professionals in this field play a major role in ensuring the smooth movement of goods and their timely deliveries. Below are some of the prominent logistics and supply chain management jobs, along with their salary range.
| Career Option | Job Role | Average Salary Range (Per Year)* |
|---|---|---|
| Logistics Manager | Oversees transportation, warehousing, and distribution to ensure goods reach customers on time. | ₹16,00,000 – ₹28,00,000 |
| Supply Chain Analyst | Uses data to optimize processes, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. | ₹2,80,000 – ₹17,00,000 |
| Procurement / Purchasing Manager | Handles vendor management, sourcing, and timely procurement of raw materials. | ₹5,00,000 – ₹21,50,000 |
| Warehouse Manager | Manages inventory, storage systems, and order fulfillment. | ₹2,50,000 – ₹14,50,000 |
| Inventory Control Specialist | Ensures balanced stock levels to prevent shortages or overstocking. | ₹3,50,000 – ₹9,00,000 |
| Transportation / Fleet Manager | Optimizes routes, manages fleets, and ensures regulatory compliance. | ₹6,00,000 – ₹10,50,000 |
| Customs and Compliance Specialist | Deals with import/export regulations and documentation. | ₹5,00,000 – ₹11,00,000 |
| E-commerce Supply Chain Specialist | Focuses on last-mile delivery and online order fulfillment. | ₹4,00,000 – ₹18,00,000 |
| Reverse Logistics Manager | Handles product returns, recycling, and waste management. | ₹5,00,000 – ₹12,00,000 |
| Supply Chain Consultant | Provides expert advice on improving efficiency and strategies. | ₹8,60,000 – ₹30,00,000 |
*Note: The salary ranges mentioned above represent averages across both entry-level and experienced professionals, compiled from multiple online sources. Actual salaries may vary depending on factors such as job location, company size, industry, and individual experience.
Logistics and Supply Chain Management Courses
Logistics and Supply Chain Management Courses courses are offered at the following levels across institutions all over the world:
Certification – Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), etc.
Diploma – Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Diploma in Shipping & Logistics, PG Diploma in International Trade and Logistics, PG Diploma in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, etc.
UG – BBA / B.Com in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, B.Sc. in Supply Chain & Logistics, BBA in Shipping & Port Management, etc.
PG – MBA in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, MBA in Operations & Supply Chain, M.Sc. in Supply Chain Management, PGDM in Logistics & Supply Chain, etc.
Executive Programmes – Executive MBA in Supply Chain Management, MITx MicroMasters Program in Supply Chain Management, etc.
Logistics and Supply Chain Management Courses Offered by KRMU
The K.R. Mangalam University, one of top universities in Delhi NCR region, offers two Undergraduate level Logistics and SCM courses. The table below shows the highlights of the two programmes.
| Programme Name | Course Duration | Admission Eligibility | Annual Fees (As of Sept 18, 2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBA (Logistics and Supply Chain Management) with academic support of Safexpress | 3 Years | The student must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from any recognised board/university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. | Rs 2,05,000 |
| BBA (Hons. / Hons. with Research) Logistics and Supply Chain Management with academic support of Safexpress | 4 Years | The student must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from any recognised board/university with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. | Rs 2,05,000 |
KRMU Admission Process
If you find the field of logistics and supply chain management interesting and want to make a career out of it, you should pursue a logistics and supply chain management course. To get admission to a logistics and supply chain management course at the prestigious K.R. Mangalam University, you need to follow the following six easy steps:
- Visit the university’s admission form link here
- Fill out the application form and pay the required form fee
- Take the entrance exam (KREE)
- Attend the faculty-led interview
- After a successful interview, you will receive the admission offer letter on your registered mail ID
- Get enrolled
Conclusion
While we often use the terms ‘logistics’ and ‘supply chain management’ interchangeably, the difference between these two is vast, which we have already discussed above. Logistics, which deals with the movement, storage, and delivery of goods, and supply chain management, which covers the broader network from raw materials to customer satisfaction, are the driving forces behind seamless business operations, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery across industries.
Pursuing a specialised logistics and supply chain management course can open diverse career opportunities. With its programmes supported by the industry giant Safexpress and a strong academic foundation, K.R. Mangalam University should be your go-to institution that helps students gain the expertise and exposure needed to excel in this flourishing domain.
Also Read: Why Pursue BBA Logistics and Supply Chain Management
FAQs
What is the difference between logistics and supply chain management?
Logistics focuses on the storage and movement of goods, while supply chain management covers the entire process from raw material sourcing to final customer delivery and satisfaction.
Which is the best college for logistics and supply chain management course?
The best college for logistics and supply chain management course is K.R. Mangalam University.
What is SCM full form?
The full form of SCM is Supply Chain Management.
What are the fees of the logistics and supply chain management course at KRMU?
At KRMU, the per year annual fees of the logistics and supply chain management courses are Rs 2,05,000.
What are various logistics and supply chain management jobs?
Some of the most preferred logistics and supply chain management jobs are: Logistics Manager, Supply Chain Analyst, Procurement Manager, Warehouse Manager, Inventory Control Specialist, E-commerce Supply Chain Specialist, Operations Manager, and Distribution Manager.
