Procurement Glossary
Delivery concepts: Strategic logistics planning for efficient procurement
November 19, 2025
Delivery concepts form the strategic foundation for efficient procurement logistics and define how goods are transported from the supplier to the company. They include transportation routes, delivery times, packaging standards and quality assurance measures. Well thought-out delivery concepts reduce costs, minimize risks and optimize the entire supply chain. Find out below what delivery concepts are, what methods are available and how you can use them strategically.
Key Facts
- Delivery concepts coordinate transportation, timing and quality assurance in procurement logistics
- You reduce logistics costs by up to 15% through optimized route planning and bundling effects
- Modern concepts integrate digital tracking systems and AI-based prediction models
- Just-in-time and just-in-sequence are among the established delivery strategies
- Sustainability aspects are becoming increasingly important due to CO2 reduction and the circular economy
Contents
Definition: Delivery concepts
Delivery concepts are systematic planning approaches that structure and optimize all aspects of the physical delivery of goods from suppliers to companies.
Core elements of delivery concepts
A complete delivery concept comprises several central components:
- Transport modalities and route optimization
- Delivery time window and scheduling
- Packaging and load carrier standards
- Quality control and testing procedures
- Documentation and communication processes
Delivery concepts vs. traditional procurement logistics
While traditional approaches are often reactive and isolated, modern delivery concepts are characterized by proactive planning and holistic integration. They take into account the entire procurement logistics and create synergies between different suppliers and Categories.
Importance of delivery concepts in Procurement
Strategic delivery concepts support the procurement strategy by optimizing costs, minimizing risk and improving service quality. They enable precise requirements planning and strengthen the company's competitiveness.
Methods and procedures for delivery concepts
The development of effective delivery concepts requires systematic analysis methods and structured implementation approaches.
Needs and requirements analysis
The first step involves a comprehensive needs analysis of all relevant Categories and delivery requirements. This involves recording quantity structures, delivery frequencies and special handling requirements.
- Analysis of material groups and delivery volumes
- Evaluation of time criticality and shelf life
- Identification of special requirements (hazardous goods, cooling)
Supplier integration and network optimization
Successful delivery concepts are based on close cooperation with suppliers and strategic network design. Multiple sourcing strategies are balanced with logistical efficiency targets.
Digital planning and control tools
Modern delivery concepts use digital technologies for route optimization, shipment tracking and predictive analyses. These tools enable dynamic adaptation to changing requirements and disruptions.
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Key figures for controlling
Measuring the success of delivery concepts requires meaningful key figures that make operational efficiency and strategic target achievement transparent.
Logistics key figures and service quality
Key performance indicators measure the reliability and efficiency of deliveries:
- Delivery reliability (on-time delivery rate) in percent
- Average delivery time and delivery time deviations
- Damage rate and complaint rate
- Degree of completeness of deliveries
Cost ratios and profitability
Financial key figures evaluate the cost efficiency and economic contribution of the delivery concepts. The capital commitment period plays an important role here.
Sustainability and compliance metrics
Environmental and compliance indicators are becoming increasingly important for the holistic evaluation of delivery concepts and support the fulfillment of regulatory requirements.
Risk factors and controls for delivery concepts
Delivery concepts entail various operational and strategic risks that must be minimized by means of suitable control mechanisms.
Supply chain disruptions and default risks
Disruptions in the supply chain can lead to production downtime and loss of sales. Robust delivery concepts integrate alternative procurement strategiesand contingency plans.
- Diversification of transportation routes and means
- Building up strategic security stocks
- Establishment of backup suppliers
Quality and compliance risks
Inadequate quality controls or breaches of regulatory requirements can result in considerable follow-up costs. Systematic acceptance criteria and inspection processes are essential.
Cost risks and budget overruns
Volatile transport costs and unforeseen additional expenses jeopardize profitability. Continuous monitoring and flexible contract design help to control risks.
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Practical example
An automotive manufacturer implemented an integrated delivery concept for its production sites. By bundling shipments from different suppliers in one logistics center and introducing just-in-sequence deliveries, the company was able to reduce logistics costs by 18% while increasing delivery reliability to 99.2%. The implementation included the standardization of load carriers, the introduction of digital tracking systems and the close integration of suppliers into production planning.
- Reduction of stock levels by 25% through optimized delivery frequencies
- Improved planning reliability thanks to digital shipment tracking
- Increasing supplier performance through clear quality criteria
Trends & developments around delivery concepts
The development of delivery concepts is characterized by technological innovations, sustainability requirements and changing market conditions.
AI-supported optimization and automation
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing delivery planning through self-learning algorithms and real-time optimization. AI in Procurement enables more precise predictions and adaptive route planning.
- Predictive analytics for demand forecasts
- Autonomous means of transportation and drone use
- Intelligent warehouse management and order picking
Sustainable and cycle-oriented logistics
Environmental aspects are becoming increasingly important in the design of delivery concepts. CO2-neutral transportation and circular economy principles are becoming decisive success factors.
Resilient and flexible supply chains
The experiences of global crises are increasing the focus on supply chain resilience management. Delivery concepts must guarantee flexibility and reliability without sacrificing efficiency.
Conclusion
Delivery concepts are strategic success factors for efficient and resilient procurement. They combine operational excellence with strategic goals and create measurable competitive advantages through cost optimization and service quality. The integration of digital technologies and sustainability aspects will be decisive for success in the future. Companies should continuously develop their delivery concepts and adapt them to changing market requirements.
FAQ
What are the most important components of a delivery concept?
A complete delivery concept includes transportation planning, delivery time windows, packaging standards, quality control and communication processes. These elements are systematically coordinated to ensure optimum delivery performance and minimize costs.
What is the difference between just-in-time and just-in-sequence deliveries?
Just-in-time focuses on the exact delivery time to meet demand, while just-in-sequence also takes into account the exact sequence of parts according to the production sequence. Just-in-sequence requires even more precise coordination between supplier and customer.
What role does digitalization play in modern delivery concepts?
Digital technologies enable real-time tracking, predictive analyses and automated route optimization. They improve transparency, reduce manual effort and enable proactive fault handling. AI-based systems continuously optimize delivery planning.
How are sustainability aspects integrated into delivery concepts?
Sustainable delivery concepts take into account CO2 emissions, packaging optimization and circular economy principles. This includes the use of environmentally friendly means of transport, reusable systems for load carriers and the optimization of transport routes to reduce emissions.
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