The supply chain is a key area of any company’s operations, which should be properly secured so that neither the interests of the seller nor the target entity suffer. Nowadays, however, the various elements in this area are increasingly subject to theft, human error or unexpected problems, which disorganizes logistics. How to take care of supply chain security and what is worth knowing?
What makes up a supply chain?
A comprehensive system that includes all stages and activities closely related to the movement of products on the way from the manufacturer to the customer is called a supply chain. To ensure security in the supply chain, it is useful to know its various components. These are whether raw material suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, warehouse points or retail facilities, which are linked by dependencies and contracts to deliver specific products to the final customer.
The supply chain also includes all the processes, systems, strategies and programs through which inventory management, monitoring of operations, transportation or planning are organized. An effective supply chain operates in a way that ensures that the product is delivered from the manufacturer to the customer as safely, quickly and at the lowest possible cost.
A secure supply chain – how to build it?
To ensure security in the supply chain, it is crucial to meticulously plan all activities and steps related to the various elements of transportation, storage, as well as delivery of raw materials and finished products. Very important here is the aspect of possible anticipation of various types of delays, deviations from the norm or unplanned events and the development of emergency procedures.
After possible unplanned events, it is also very important to analyze and draw conclusions in order to best be able to remedy the situation in the future or apply the most favorable remedial solution, or substitute option.
How to strengthen supply chain security?
The basis for an efficient and secure supply chain today is the instant flow of information. Any logistics chain should therefore operate on a digital system that allows synchronization and management of data, as well as optimization of costs or lead times. All data should also be digitally secured and accessible only to specific entities. The use of monitoring and GPS is also important here.
A secure supply chain also means physical security in the form of modern security seals with monitoring of cargo location or opening with special codes. It is also worth noting traditional solutions such as various types of locks and additional locks used in delivery trucks. Although this type of simplest security will not always protect, for example, from theft by today’s specialized criminals, it will significantly increase the time needed to take the goods, which will increase the chances of interrupting their intention and enable more accurate registration of the event.