1. Introduction

Effective logistics systems are central to deliver emergency relief. Logistics a part of the supply chain to ‘deliver the right supplies, in good condition and the quantities requested, in the right places at the time they are needed’.

Humanitarian logistics are a part of the supply chain and involve processes and systems involved to mobilise people, resources, skills and knowledge to deliver humanitarian assistance to people in need . It includes assessment, procurement, transport, tracking, customs clearance, local transportation, warehousing and final distribution. Security and communications are also important in overall logistics programmes, although these are also often managed by other specialists (see Chapter 20 Telecommunications and IT, and Chapter 14 Safety and security).

Many people may be involved in logistics and supply chain operations in an emergency response team. The role of the logistics team is to give operational support to programmes, with close adherence to internal and donor protocols and procedures. This can include:

• Procurement and supply chain management: responsible for procurement, transport, customs, warehousing, field distribution and commodity tracking management
• Asset and equipment management: management and maintenance, financial planning and needs forecasting, and design and implementation of equipment management procedures
• Security and communication: security plan design and management, communications equipment installation and procedures when a dedicated Security person is not in place.

Annex 15.1 Job description-Logistician