Global Logistics For Dummies

Introduction

There are many good reasons to consider expanding your successful domestic business into a new foreign location. There may be a new market in which to sell or distribute your product. There may be manufacturing cost savings by locating closer to either new consumers or to your product’s raw materials and components. Or, you may have determined that you can achieve labor cost savings in order to meet the expanding demand for your product. However, in spite of all the economic advantages you may have perceived, be aware that the physical and cultural challenges of your new location may far outweigh any potential cost savings. In this book, we will assist you in identifying — and, hopefully, avoiding — these challenges.

About This Book

The book has four major focuses: the logistics involved in establishing and sustaining a “global” manufacturing operation (Part 2), the logistics related to globally marketing and distributing your products (Part 3), providing logistics services to or for global clients (Part 4), and the unique aspects of providing humanitarian and disaster relief logistics (Part 5). Finally, in The Part of Tens (Part 6) we highlight ten companies that have been successful in their global expansion; examine ten companies that made significant missteps in their global expansion (although some of those companies adjusted their approach and are very successful today); and provide ten suggestions for resources you may consider when conducting your due diligence ...