4. Handling and logistics

Handling operations are a sub-system of logistics. In simple terms, the "physical logistics chain" is an organized and coordinated succession of the following functions: handling, packaging, storage, transport.

The interdependence of these four functions demonstrates the importance of handling in the design of a logistics system.

As we'll see in the article devoted to applications in certain economic sectors, continuous handling plays a key role in logistics objectives, in terms of costs and service rates.