JIT and Corporate Transportation Requirements.

The article examines the impact of just-in-time (JIT) manufacturing programs on the corporate transportation component of logistics. JIT manufacturing programs represent organizational commitments to improve input and finished product quality, eliminate raw material and work-in-process inventories, increase manufacturing efficiency, and respond more effectively to market demand. JIT manufacturers seek to include their suppliers (both internal and external) in their programs to enhance effectiveness. These supplier-oriented programs include technical support for statistical quality control, sharing production planning information, and engaging in long-term contracts. The dramatic results achieved by companies implementing JIT manufacturing programs have been described in many publications, and articles addressing these matters are appearing with greater frequency. However, little attention has been given to the impact that a JIT commitment has on the corporate transportation component of logistics. Consequently, little is known about this subject and how related functions are being integrated into and affected by JIT.