1.1 Role of logistics in humanitarian operations

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).