Understanding common transportation and logistics industry terminology can make it easier to navigate today's increasingly complex supply chains.
This glossary defines common transportation, logistics, supply chain, warehousing, fleet, and commercial vehicle terms, frequently used industry acronyms, as well as Ryder solutions, products, and technologies.
Additional transportation charges for services beyond standard pickup and delivery. Examples can include detention, liftgate service, inside delivery, redelivery, storage, and special handling.
Vehicle technologies designed to assist drivers and support safer operation. Examples include collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
An electronic notification sent before a shipment arrives that can include information about shipment contents, quantities, packaging, carrier, and estimated arrival time.
Technologies designed to improve commercial vehicle safety, connectivity, performance, efficiency, or operation.
Artificial intelligence capable of independently performing tasks or multi-step workflows toward a defined goal with limited human intervention.
Freight transported by aircraft, commonly used for time-sensitive, high-value or long-distance shipments.
The process of assigning available inventory, transportation capacity, or other resources to specific customers, orders, locations, or requirements.
A vehicle powered by a fuel or energy source other than conventional gasoline or diesel. Depending on the classification, alternative fuel vehicles can include electric, hydrogen, natural gas, and other vehicle technologies.
The process of coordinating designated pickup or delivery times among carriers, shippers, receivers, and facilities.
A set of rules that allows software applications to exchange information and interact. Logistics APIs can connect transportation, warehouse, order, inventory, and other systems.
Technology that enables computer systems to perform capabilities such as analysis, pattern recognition, prediction, content generation, and decision support. Logistics applications can include forecasting, route optimization, automation, predictive analytics, and exception management.
A transportation provider that owns or operates trucks, trailers or other physical transportation equipment used to move freight.
The process of acquiring, operating, maintaining, tracking, replacing, and disposing of physical assets.
The use of technologies such as GPS, telematics, RFID or other identification systems to monitor the location, status, or utilization of physical assets.
A material-handling vehicle that moves along predefined routes using technologies such as magnetic strips, wires, markers, or other guidance systems.
The use of automated equipment and software to identify and route products, packages, or shipments according to destination, order, or another defined characteristic.
A computer-controlled system that automatically stores and retrieves goods from defined storage locations.
The use of technology, software, or equipment to perform processes with reduced manual intervention.
A forklift capable of performing some or all material movement without continuous human operation using sensors, cameras, navigation technology, and software.
A mobile robot that uses sensors, software, and navigation technology to move through an operating environment without following a fixed route.
The return portion of a transportation route, particularly when a vehicle carries another shipment rather than returning empty.
The process of identifying and coordinating freight for return movements to reduce empty miles and improve vehicle utilization.
An order or portion of an order that cannot be fulfilled immediately because inventory is temporarily unavailable.
A machine-readable representation of data used to identify and track products, packages, pallets, or other items.
The basic transportation charge before applicable accessorial charges, fuel surcharges, or other additional fees are added.
A warehouse picking method in which products for multiple orders are picked together and separated into individual orders afterward.
A vehicle powered entirely by electricity stored in rechargeable batteries and propelled by one or more electric motors.
The process of comparing cost, service, productivity, or other performance measures against historical results, targets, or relevant industry comparisons.
A transportation document describing the goods being shipped and key shipment information such as the parties, origin, and destination. Depending on the transaction, it may also serve as a receipt or evidence of the transportation contract.
A shipment in which identifying information about one or more parties is intentionally withheld from other participants in the transaction.
A truck tractor operating without a trailer attached.
A carrier authorized to transport goods that remain under customs control before applicable entry requirements or duties are completed.
A secured facility where imported goods can be stored under customs control before applicable duties and taxes are paid.
A straight truck with an enclosed cargo body mounted on the same chassis as the cab.
An unexpected mechanical or equipment failure that prevents a commercial vehicle from operating normally and may require roadside service, repair, or replacement equipment.
The process of separating a consolidated shipment into smaller shipments. The term can also describe cargo transported individually rather than in standardized containers.
Cargo transported in large quantities without individual packaging, such as liquids, grains, or minerals.
The process of positioning and backing a truck or trailer against a loading dock so freight can be loaded or unloaded.
Technologies and processes used to collect, analyze, and present operational data to support business decisions.
The portion of a commercial vehicle containing the driver's operating area.
A commercial vehicle consisting of the cab, frame, engine, and drivetrain that can be fitted with a specialized body or equipment for a particular application.
A California state agency responsible for programs and regulations related to air quality and emissions. CARB regulations can affect commercial vehicles, fleets, engines, fuels, and transportation equipment operating in California.
Available transportation, warehouse, labor, equipment, or other resources that can be used to meet operational demand.
The process of aligning available resources with current and anticipated demand.
Goods or materials being transported.
A request for compensation related to cargo that is lost, damaged, or otherwise affected while in transportation.
An enclosed commercial van designed to transport goods, equipment, or materials.
A company or operator that transports freight.
The regulatory authorization that permits a carrier to conduct specified transportation operations.
The process of evaluating and monitoring whether carriers meet applicable regulatory, safety, insurance, and other requirements.
A group of transportation providers available across specified modes, lanes, regions, or markets.
The process of sourcing, evaluating, selecting, and contracting transportation carriers.
A tool used to evaluate carrier performance using measures such as on-time pickup and delivery, service, safety, claims, cost, and tender acceptance.
The process of evaluating and choosing carriers based on factors such as service requirements, capacity, cost, operating authority, safety, insurance, and performance.
The process of evaluating a carrier before it is used to transport freight. Vetting can include reviewing operating authority, insurance, safety performance, business legitimacy, and other risk factors.
The process of determining the appropriate carton or packaging configuration for an order based on factors such as product dimensions, weight, and shipping requirements.
The structural frame and supporting components of a commercial vehicle. In intermodal transportation, a container chassis is the wheeled trailer frame used to transport shipping containers by truck.
A system commonly used in the United States to categorize vehicles by Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). Classes 1–3 are generally considered light-duty, Classes 4–6 medium-duty, and Classes 7–8 heavy-duty, although terminology can vary by industry and regulatory context.
A heavy-duty commercial vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating greater than 33,000 pounds.
A temperature-controlled supply chain used to transport and store products that must remain within specified temperature ranges.
Temperature-controlled warehouse space used to store products requiring refrigerated or frozen conditions.
A driver's license required to operate certain commercial motor vehicles in the United States. Requirements vary based on vehicle type, weight, passengers, and cargo.
A vehicle, ranging from cargo vans and light-duty trucks to heavy-duty tractors and trailers, used primarily for business purposes and the transportation of goods.
A transportation provider that offers services to multiple customers rather than operating exclusively for one shipper.
Transportation capacity reserved or dedicated to meet a shipper's defined requirements.
Adherence to applicable laws, regulations, standards, policies, or contractual requirements.
Artificial intelligence technology that enables computer systems to analyze visual information. Logistics applications can include inventory tracking, damage detection, automated inspection, and safety monitoring.
A fleet that uses technologies such as telematics, sensors, and cameras to collect and exchange information about vehicle location, condition, utilization, and operation.
The party designated to receive a shipment.
Goods delivered to another party while ownership remains with the original owner until specified conditions, such as a sale, are met.
The party that sends goods for transportation. The consignor may also be referred to as the shipper.
The process of combining smaller shipments or quantities into a larger shipment or unit.
A standardized reusable unit used to transport goods, particularly across ocean, rail, and truck transportation networks.
The use of standardized containers that allow freight to transfer between transportation modes without unloading the cargo itself.
An ongoing approach to identifying and implementing changes that improve safety, service, quality, cost, or productivity.
A carrier that provides transportation services to customers under contractual arrangements.
Outsourced logistics operations that can include transportation, warehousing, distribution, fulfillment, and related services.
An arrangement in which a third party performs manufacturing or production activities for another company.
Outsourced packaging services that can include primary and secondary packaging, labeling, assembly, and retail display preparation.
A transportation rate negotiated for an agreed period or set of freight requirements rather than purchased at current spot-market pricing.
A centralized technology, data, and operational capability used to monitor and manage transportation or supply chain activity, including visibility, exceptions, and response.
A material handling system that moves products or materials along a defined path within a warehouse, distribution center, or manufacturing operation.
A measure of vehicle or transportation operating costs for each mile traveled.
The total cost associated with serving a customer, location, channel, or market.
The movement of freight between countries, including applicable customs, documentation, and compliance processes.
A facility or designated area where freight is transferred between inbound and outbound vehicles with little or no storage.
The process of transferring goods from inbound transportation directly or quickly to outbound transportation rather than placing them into long-term storage.
The three-dimensional space occupied by freight.
A measure of how effectively available three-dimensional space is used within a trailer, container, or warehouse.
Government authorities and processes responsible for controlling goods entering or leaving a country.
A licensed party that assists importers and exporters with applicable customs requirements and clearance processes.
An inventory control method in which selected inventory is counted on a recurring basis rather than relying only on a complete physical inventory.
A truck tractor without a sleeper compartment, commonly used for local and regional transportation.
The movement of a commercial truck without revenue-generating freight.
A transportation arrangement in which vehicles, drivers, and other resources are dedicated to serving a specific customer's requirements under contract.
A fleet of vehicles and drivers assigned primarily or exclusively to a particular customer, operation or transportation requirement.
A transportation model offered by Ryder in which drivers, vehicles, and operational resources are assigned to a customer's specific requirements.
A scheduled date, time, or window for a shipment to arrive at its destination.
Information verifying that a shipment or delivery has been completed.
The concentration of deliveries within a defined geographic area.
The planned sequence of locations a vehicle follows to complete deliveries.
The process of estimating future demand using historical and current information.
The process of using demand forecasts and other information to support decisions involving inventory, production, transportation, and capacity.
A charge associated with cargo or containers remaining at a port, terminal, or other facility beyond an allowed period.
A measure of weight relative to volume. Freight density can affect equipment utilization and, in some transportation modes, shipment classification, and pricing.
Time a driver or transportation equipment spends waiting beyond an agreed or allowed period for loading or unloading.
Technology that connects available freight with available carrier capacity.
A supply chain that uses connected technologies and data to improve visibility, collaboration, automation, and decision-making.
A digital representation of a physical asset, facility, network, or process that can use operational data for modeling, analysis and scenario planning.
A model in which products are sold and shipped directly from a brand or manufacturer to the end customer.
A distribution model in which products are delivered directly to retail stores rather than moving through a retailer's distribution center.
The process of assigning drivers and vehicles to loads, routes, or service requirements and coordinating their movement.
The movement and positioning of finished goods from production or storage locations toward customers, stores, or other destinations.
A facility used to receive, store, process, and distribute goods, often with an emphasis on inventory flow and order fulfillment.
An area of a facility where trucks or trailers are positioned for loading and unloading.
An individual loading or unloading position at a facility.
The height of a loading dock above ground level, typically designed to align with the floor height of transportation equipment.
The process of assigning appointment times and loading dock capacity to arriving and departing trucks.
The amount of time required to move received goods from the receiving dock into an available inventory location and make them ready for use or fulfillment.
Transportation from the shipper's location through delivery at the final destination.
An inspection of a commercial motor vehicle, driver, or both to evaluate compliance with applicable transportation safety requirements.
The unauthorized or undisclosed transfer of a freight shipment from one carrier or broker to another. Fraudulent double brokering can create financial, cargo, insurance, and security risks.
Short-distance transportation of containers or freight between ports, rail terminals, warehouses, and other nearby facilities.
A condition in which the available supply of qualified professional drivers is insufficient to meet transportation demand.
A measure of the rate at which professional drivers leave and are replaced within a transportation operation.
An operation in which a driver drops one trailer and connects to another rather than waiting for the original trailer to be loaded or unloaded.
A location where trailers or containers can be temporarily parked, staged, or exchanged.
A trailer left at a shipper or receiver location for loading or unloading without requiring the driver to remain with it.
An enclosed, non-refrigerated trailer commonly used to transport general freight.
The amount of time freight, a container, trailer, or vehicle remains at a location before continuing its movement.
The process of receiving inventory, storing products, processing online orders, picking and packing products, shipping orders, and managing related fulfillment activities.
A calculation used to determine an order quantity that balances inventory ordering and holding costs.
A vehicle that uses electricity as part or all of its propulsion system.
The standardized electronic exchange of business documents such as purchase orders, shipment information, invoices, and status updates.
A report used to document a commercial vehicle's condition, defects, or safety concerns identified during applicable inspections.
An electronic device used to record certain commercial driver's driving time and related information to support Hours of Service compliance.
A digital record confirming completion of a delivery. It can include timestamps, signatures, photographs, location information, or delivery notes.
A shipping container that does not contain cargo.
Miles traveled by a commercial vehicle without revenue-generating freight.
The ability to monitor goods, inventory, and transportation events across multiple stages of a supply chain from origin through destination.
Integrated software used to manage core business functions such as finance, procurement, inventory, manufacturing, and supply chain operations.
The U.S. federal agency responsible for protecting human health and the environment. In transportation, EPA establishes and administers requirements related to areas such as vehicle and engine emissions, fuel standards, and greenhouse gas emissions.
The type of vehicle, trailer, container, or other equipment required for a shipment, such as dry van, refrigerated trailer, or flatbed.
The projected time a vehicle or shipment is expected to reach its destination.
A deviation from a planned transportation or supply chain activity, such as a late shipment, missed pickup, or inventory shortage.
The process of identifying, prioritizing, communicating, and resolving deviations from planned operations.
Freight requiring faster-than-standard transportation.
A transportation service designed to move a shipment faster than standard service.
Goods or products sent from one country to another for sale, distribution, or other purposes.
The final stage of a product's transportation journey to its delivery destination.
Transportation during the final segment of a product's journey. Final mile delivery can range from parcel delivery to large or bulky products requiring scheduled delivery, placement, assembly, or installation.
The initial stage of a shipment's transportation journey from its origin to the next point in the logistics network.
An inventory method in which products received first are generally used, picked, or shipped first.
A cost that does not directly change with short-term operating activity or mileage.
An open trailer with a flat platform and no permanent roof or enclosed sides.
A group of commercial vehicles owned, leased, operated, or managed by an organization.
The amount or percentage of a fleet that is available and ready for operation.
The use of commercial vehicles under a lease arrangement rather than purchasing them outright.
The stages a commercial vehicle moves through from specification and acquisition through operation, maintenance, replacement, and disposal.
The process of managing commercial vehicles throughout their useful lives.
The inspection, preventive maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of commercial vehicles to support safety, reliability, compliance and performance.
An arrangement in which an external provider manages some or all of an organization's commercial vehicle maintenance.
The coordinated management of commercial vehicles, which can include acquisition, maintenance, compliance, fuel, telematics, utilization, driver support, and lifecycle planning.
The use of data, technology, and analysis to improve fleet size, vehicle mix, utilization, routing, maintenance, and cost.
The process of determining when commercial vehicles should be removed from service and replaced.
The total number of vehicles within a fleet.
Technology used to collect and transmit fleet information such as vehicle location, mileage, diagnostics, and driving activity.
A measure of how effectively available fleet vehicles are being used.
A facility designed and operated to meet applicable requirements for storing or handling food and beverage products.
A powered industrial vehicle used to lift, move and position pallets and other materials.
A motor carrier that transports goods or passengers for customers in exchange for compensation.
The movement of goods from suppliers and producers toward customers and end destinations.
A warehouse location positioned for efficient order picking and replenished from reserve inventory as needed.
A logistics model in which a provider manages and coordinates multiple logistics providers, technologies, and supply chain activities on behalf of a customer.
Commercial goods or commodities being transported.
The process of reviewing freight bills and transportation charges for accuracy and compliance with agreed rates and services.
An invoice for transportation services.
An intermediary that arranges transportation between a shipper and an authorized carrier but generally does not physically transport freight.
A service that connects shippers requiring transportation capacity with carriers that can move their freight.
A request for compensation related to freight that is lost, damaged, or otherwise affected while in transportation.
A classification used in less-than-truckload transportation that can affect shipment pricing based on characteristics such as density, handling, stowability, and liability.
The process of combining smaller freight shipments into a larger shipment.
A provider that coordinates freight transportation for shippers, particularly international or multimodal movements.
The planning, execution and oversight of freight transportation, including activities such as procurement, routing, tendering, visibility, audit, and performance management.
The interconnected carriers, facilities, transportation lanes, modes, and resources used to move freight.
The total transportation spend managed by a transportation or logistics provider.
The ability to monitor the location, status, and movement of freight throughout transportation.
A payment card or account used by fleets and drivers to purchase fuel and, depending on the program, other vehicle-related products, or services.
A measure of how efficiently a vehicle uses fuel, commonly expressed as miles per gallon.
The process of controlling, monitoring, and analyzing fleet fuel purchasing and consumption.
An additional transportation charge used to account for changes in fuel costs, typically based on an established formula or index.
The processes required to complete a customer order.
A facility designed primarily to store inventory and process customer orders for shipment.
An ocean shipment in which a container is generally used for the cargo of one shipper or consignee.
A commercial vehicle lease that includes maintenance and potentially other fleet services.
A truckload transportation service in which a trailer is generally dedicated to one shipper's freight.
Artificial intelligence designed to create new content or information in response to prompts or other inputs. Logistics applications can include summarization, document analysis, communications, and interaction with operational data.
Technology used to capture, analyze, and visualize data associated with geographic locations.
The use of GPS or other location technologies to establish a virtual geographic boundary that can trigger notifications or actions when an asset enters or leaves the area.
A satellite-based positioning system used for navigation, location tracking, routing, and other applications.
A warehouse automation approach in which products are automatically transported to workers rather than requiring workers to travel through storage areas to retrieve them.
Emissions of gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide. In transportation and logistics, GHG emissions can result from fuel combustion in commercial vehicles, facilities, and other supply chain activities.
The manufacturer's specified maximum allowable combined weight of a powered vehicle and the trailer or trailers it is designed to tow, including applicable cargo, and occupants.
The actual total weight of a vehicle, including the vehicle itself, fuel, occupants, cargo, and equipment.
The manufacturer's specified maximum allowable operating weight of a vehicle.
Common shorthand for hazardous materials.
Materials that can pose risks to health, safety, property, or the environment and are subject to applicable transportation and handling requirements.
The primary or outbound revenue-generating portion of a transportation route.
A commercial truck designed for higher-weight and demanding applications, generally associated with Classes 7 and 8.
Delivery of products to a residential location. Depending on the service, home delivery can include scheduling, placement, assembly, or installation.
Federal requirements governing driving, working, and rest periods for applicable commercial motor vehicle drivers.
A centralized location where freight is received, sorted, transferred, consolidated, or redistributed.
A transportation or distribution network in which freight moves through central hubs connecting multiple origins and destinations.
A device mounted on a trailer wheel or hub that records mileage for maintenance and utilization purposes.
Goods or products brought into one country from another.
The party responsible for ensuring imported goods comply with applicable customs entry requirements and associated obligations.
A customs status that allows imported goods to move under customs control before final entry, payment of applicable duties or exportation.
Goods or materials being transported into a facility.
The planning, transportation, receiving, storage, and management of goods moving from suppliers into an organization's operations.
The physical movement of goods from suppliers or origins into a plant, warehouse, distribution center, or other facility.
An accessorial service in which freight is moved beyond the curb or standard loading area into an interior location.
The coordinated management of transportation, warehousing, inventory, technology, and related logistics activities as a connected operation.
A standardized container designed to move between modes such as ship, rail, and truck without unloading the cargo itself.
The movement of freight using two or more transportation modes, commonly involving truck and rail.
Goods transported between countries using truck, rail, ocean, air, or a combination of modes.
A network of connected devices, sensors, and software that collect and exchange data.
Transportation involving movement between states or across state boundaries.
Goods, materials, or components held for production, distribution, fulfillment, or sale.
A measure of how closely recorded inventory quantities and locations match actual inventory.
The total cost associated with holding inventory over time, which can include storage, capital, insurance, handling, obsolescence, and other expenses.
The processes used to track and maintain inventory quantities, locations, and status.
The planning, tracking, and control of inventory to balance product availability, space, capital, and operating cost.
The use of data and forecasting to determine appropriate inventory quantities and locations while balancing service and cost.
The process of restoring inventory to required levels by ordering additional goods or moving products from reserve storage to picking locations.
A measure of how frequently inventory is sold, used, or replaced during a defined period.
The ability to access current information about inventory quantities, status, and locations.
An inventory strategy that maintains additional stock to help protect against unexpected demand, supply disruptions, or transportation delays.
An inventory and production approach in which materials or products arrive close to when they are needed, reducing inventory requirements, but increasing dependence on reliable supply and transportation.
A measurable value used to evaluate performance against a defined objective.
The process of combining individual products, components, or materials into a single kit for production, distribution, or fulfillment.
A shipper that meets applicable Transportation Security Administration requirements for certain air cargo transportation.
The process of applying labels to products, packages, or shipments for identification, tracking, handling, compliance, or delivery.
The total cost associated with obtaining and delivering a product to its destination, potentially including product cost, transportation, insurance, duties, taxes, and customs fees.
The retractable supports used to hold up the front of a semi-trailer when it is not attached to a tractor.
A defined transportation route between an origin and destination.
The process of improving transportation movements within or across lanes to enhance service, capacity utilization, cost, or empty-mile performance.
A provider that coordinates multiple transportation, warehouse, supply chain, technology, or logistics providers on behalf of a customer.
The amount of time required from the initiation of a process until its completion.
An ocean shipment in which cargo from multiple shippers shares container space.
A transportation service in which shipments from multiple customers share space on the same trailer.
A powered platform mounted on a truck or trailer that raises and lowers freight between the vehicle and ground level.
A vehicle generally classified in the lower vehicle weight categories and used for passenger, service, delivery, or other commercial applications.
The primary movement of freight between cities, terminals, or distribution points, excluding local pickup and delivery.
An operation in which a driver remains with the trailer while it is being loaded.
An operation in which a driver remains with the trailer while it is being unloaded.
Freight or cargo being transported in a vehicle, trailer, or container.
A digital marketplace or platform used to connect available freight with available transportation capacity.
The process of combining smaller shipments into a larger transportation load.
The process of efficiently combining and positioning freight based on factors such as weight, space, delivery sequence, and equipment capacity.
The process of assigning and arranging freight within transportation equipment based on factors such as weight, dimensions, delivery sequence, and capacity.
An offer of a shipment to a carrier for acceptance or rejection.
A measure comparing the number of available freight loads with available trucks in a market or area, often used as an indicator of freight demand relative to capacity.
A facility area designed for trucks or trailers to load and unload goods.
The planning, execution, and management of the movement and storage of goods and related information.
The use of engineering, data, and modeling to design or improve logistics networks, facility layouts, material flows, labor requirements, and automation.
The planning, execution, and control of transportation, warehousing, inventory, and related logistics activities.
The interconnected facilities, transportation routes, carriers, inventory locations, and other resources used to move and store goods.
Transportation involving longer distances, often between regions or states.
A type of artificial intelligence that enables computer systems to identify patterns in data and improve predictions or decisions based on experience with that data.
An outsourced transportation model in which a provider manages some or all of a company's freight transportation activities.
A document or electronic record listing the freight, shipments or cargo being transported on a vehicle, vessel, or other mode.
The movement of raw materials, components, work-in-process or finished goods through a facility, manufacturing operation, or supply chain.
The movement, storage, control, and protection of goods and materials within warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing facilities, and other operations.
Equipment used to move, store, position, or handle goods and materials, including forklifts, pallet jacks, conveyors, and automated systems.
A commercial truck generally positioned between light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles and commonly used for applications such as delivery, service, and local distribution.
The portion of a shipment's journey between its initial origin movement and final delivery.
A recurring transportation route involving multiple scheduled pickups or deliveries.
Commercial vehicle maintenance or repair performed by technicians at a customer's location rather than requiring the vehicle to travel to a maintenance facility.
The method used to transport freight, such as truck, rail, ocean, or air.
The process of selecting the transportation mode or combination of modes that best meets a shipment's cost, service, capacity, and transit-time requirements.
A company that transports passengers or property using commercial motor vehicles.
An identifier associated with certain FMCSA operating authorities for regulated transportation entities.
A warehouse operation in which multiple customers share a facility and potentially resources such as labor, technology, automation, and material handling equipment.
The movement of freight using more than one mode of transportation during its journey.
A transportation route that includes multiple pickup or delivery locations.
The practice of moving manufacturing, sourcing, or other operations closer to the market they serve, typically to a nearby country or region.
The interconnected facilities, transportation routes, carriers, suppliers, customers, and other resources through which goods move.
The use of data and modeling to evaluate the structure and performance of a transportation or supply chain network.
The process of determining the appropriate number, location, and roles of facilities, inventory points, transportation lanes and other supply chain resources.
The use of data, modeling, and analysis to improve the configuration and performance of a transportation or supply chain network.
A location within a logistics network where goods are produced, stored, transferred, processed or delivered.
A transportation or logistics provider that primarily arranges or manages services using third-party carriers or other external assets rather than relying exclusively on equipment it owns.
Goods transported by cargo ship between ports.
A facility or logistics operation located outside the physical boundaries of a marine port or terminal.
An approach that connects inventory, ordering, fulfillment, and customer experiences across multiple sales channels.
A fulfillment approach that uses connected inventory and operations to serve orders across multiple sales and delivery channels.
Transportation capacity arranged in response to immediate or short-term shipping requirements rather than through a long-term dedicated arrangement.
A performance measure indicating whether a shipment or order reaches its destination within the required or agreed delivery window.
A performance measure evaluating whether an order arrives within the required delivery window and with the complete quantity ordered.
Regulatory authorization that determines the type of for-hire interstate transportation or brokerage operation an entity may conduct.
A measure of whether customer orders are fulfilled with the correct products, quantities and other required specifications.
The amount of time required to complete an order from a defined starting point through fulfillment or delivery.
The process of receiving and processing customer orders, picking inventory, packing products, and preparing or shipping orders.
The process of receiving, tracking, and managing customer orders from placement through fulfillment and delivery.
Software used to capture, manage, track, and process customer orders across sales and fulfillment channels.
The process of selecting products from inventory to fulfill customer orders.
The location where a shipment begins its transportation journey.
Goods or products being transported from a facility to customers, stores, distribution centers, or other destinations.
The processes involved in storing, handling and moving finished goods from a manufacturing facility, warehouse, or distribution center toward customers or other destinations.
The physical movement of products from a facility to their next destination.
A status that prohibits a driver, vehicle, or motor carrier from operating until specified safety or regulatory conditions are addressed.
Truck transportation involving freight movement over longer distances, often between regions or states.
An individual who owns or leases a commercial truck and operates it to transport freight under their own authority or in association with another authorized carrier.
A portable platform used to support, store, and transport goods as a single unit.
A manual or powered material handling device designed to lift and move palletized freight over relatively short distances.
The process of arranging and securing products or packages on a pallet for storage, handling, or transportation.
A relatively small packaged shipment typically handled through parcel carrier networks.
The weight of cargo, freight, or other load carried by a vehicle, excluding the empty weight of the vehicle itself.
A period of increased demand that creates higher transportation, warehouse, fulfillment, or capacity requirements.
A transportation route involving multiple pickups or deliveries within a defined geographic area.
A fulfillment process in which products are selected from inventory and packed for customer shipment.
The warehouse location from which a product is directly selected to fulfill an order.
A warehouse technology that uses lights or displays to direct workers to the correct product location and quantity.
The process of retrieving products from warehouse inventory to fulfill orders or other requirements.
Transportation operations involving the collection and delivery of freight, generally within a local or regional service area.
A distribution strategy in which shipments destined for a geographic region are consolidated, transported to a regional location and separated for local delivery.
A facility where vessels load and unload cargo and connect ocean transportation with other modes and logistics operations.
A condition in which freight volumes, vessel activity, container flows, or operational constraints contribute to delays and increased dwell time at a port or terminal.
Short-distance truck transportation used to move containers or freight between a marine port and nearby rail terminals, warehouses, or distribution centers.
A designated location where goods or people may legally enter a country and complete applicable customs and inspection requirements.
The coordinated movement and management of goods from a port of entry through inland transportation, warehousing, distribution, fulfillment, and final delivery.
The powered portion of a commercial vehicle used to move freight. In tractor-trailer operations, the tractor is the power unit.
The use of historical and current data, statistical techniques and analytical models to estimate future outcomes.
A maintenance approach that uses vehicle condition data, operating information, or analytical models to help identify potential equipment issues before failure occurs.
Scheduled inspection and maintenance performed at defined intervals to help identify and address vehicle or equipment issues before they result in failures or unplanned downtime.
A carrier designated to receive priority or a defined share of freight within a transportation lane or operation.
Packaging that directly contains or comes into contact with a product.
A fleet operated by a company primarily to transport its own goods, materials, or products.
The transition of some or all transportation activities from a company-operated private fleet to an outsourced transportation model such as dedicated transportation.
Documentation confirming that a shipment was delivered to its intended destination.
A warehouse that provides storage and related services to multiple customers.
The warehouse process of moving received goods from the receiving area to designated storage locations.
The processes used to inspect, measure and verify that products, services or operations meet established quality requirements.
The amount of time a vehicle, shipment, order, or task waits before the next activity begins.
Technology that uses radio waves to identify and track tagged products, pallets, equipment, or other assets.
The price charged for transporting freight or providing a logistics service.
A document or electronic agreement confirming the rate and other terms associated with a specific freight movement.
A transportation pricing measure based on the amount charged for each mile of a freight movement.
Information that becomes available immediately or with minimal delay as an activity or event occurs.
The ability to access current information about shipments, inventory, vehicles, or other supply chain activities as operations occur.
The warehouse process of accepting incoming goods, verifying shipments, and preparing products for storage, production, or distribution.
A commonly used industry term for a refrigerated truck, trailer, or container designed to transport temperature-sensitive freight.
Transportation using temperature-controlled vehicles or containers to move temperature-sensitive products.
Truck transportation within a defined geographic region, generally covering shorter distances than long-haul operations.
A transportation operation in which a load or trailer is transferred between drivers or power units at designated points along a route.
The process of moving or ordering inventory to restore stock to a required level.
A formal request asking potential providers to submit proposed solutions, capabilities, and pricing for specified requirements.
A request asking potential providers to submit pricing for specified products or services.
The practice of moving manufacturing, production, or other operations back to a company's domestic market after those activities had previously been located abroad.
The processes used to prepare and distribute inventory or orders to retail stores, consumers, or other retail channels.
A product sent back through the supply chain after purchase or delivery.
The processes used to receive, evaluate, route, and resolve returned products.
The movement and management of products, materials or packaging back through the supply chain after delivery or use.
The process of identifying, assessing, and managing risks that could affect transportation, fleet, or supply chain operations.
Actions taken to reduce the likelihood or potential impact of identified operational, transportation, safety, compliance, or supply chain risks.
Support provided when a commercial vehicle experiences a breakdown or other problem while on the road.
The use of programmable machines to perform physical tasks. Warehouse robotics can support material movement, picking, sorting, and pallet handling.
Vehicles and transportation equipment used to move goods or people. In trucking operations, the term can include tractors, trucks, and trailers.
A door made of horizontal sections that rolls upward to open the cargo area of a truck, trailer, or other commercial vehicle.
The planned path a vehicle follows between one or more pickup, delivery or service locations.
The use of data, technology, and planning methods to determine efficient transportation routes based on factors such as distance, delivery requirements, vehicle capacity, traffic, time, and cost.
The process of determining the path and sequence a vehicle or shipment will follow between locations.
Ryder's commercial vehicle leasing solution that combines vehicles with built-in maintenance and fleet support options to help businesses operate and manage commercial fleets.
Ryder's connected vehicle technologies and services that use telematics and other fleet data to provide visibility into vehicle location, performance, safety, and fleet operations.
Ryder's commercial electric vehicle solution designed to help businesses evaluate, deploy, and operate electric fleet vehicles and supporting charging infrastructure.
Ryder's mobile fleet management application that gives customers and drivers access to fleet information and services from a mobile device.
Ryder's end-to-end logistics solution connecting transportation, warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment capabilities across the movement of goods from port of entry through final destination.
Ryder's outsourced commercial vehicle maintenance solution for businesses that own or lease their vehicles, with maintenance options designed around different fleet requirements.
Ryder's proprietary supply chain visibility and collaboration technology that connects stakeholders and transportation information to support real-time visibility, exception management and coordinated execution.
Ryder's proprietary e-commerce fulfillment technology that connects inventory, order, and fulfillment activities.
Ryder's proprietary final mile technology that provides visibility into delivery activities and supports capabilities such as scheduling, tracking, customer communications, and delivery status.
Additional inventory maintained to help protect against unexpected demand, supply disruptions, transportation delays, or other uncertainty.
The broad foot or plate at the bottom of trailer landing gear that helps distribute the trailer's weight when the landing gear is lowered.
Vehicle maintenance planned at predetermined intervals based on factors such as time, mileage, engine hours, or manufacturer recommendations.
A numbered or otherwise identifiable security device placed on a trailer, container, or other cargo enclosure to help identify unauthorized access or tampering.
Packaging outside a product's primary packaging used to group, protect, display, or distribute products.
A device that detects or measures physical conditions or events and converts them into data.
The process of arranging parts, products, shipments, or activities in a required order.
The specified time, mileage, or operating interval between scheduled vehicle maintenance activities.
A defined measure or expectation for operational performance, such as delivery time, order accuracy, or inventory availability.
Goods or freight transported together from an origin to a destination.
The process of monitoring the location and status of a shipment as it moves through a transportation network.
A company or individual that sends goods through a transportation network.
A standardized reusable container designed to transport freight across modes such as ocean, rail, and truck.
A recurring transportation route between a defined origin and destination.
A facility or designated work area where commercial vehicles or equipment are inspected, maintained and repaired.
Transportation involving relatively short distances, often within a local, or regional market.
The movement of trailers or containers over short distances within or between yards, terminals, and nearby facilities.
A truck tractor equipped with a sleeping compartment behind the driver's seating area.
The process of determining where products should be positioned within a warehouse to improve picking, replenishment, space utilization and product flow.
A warehouse that uses connected technologies such as automation, robotics, sensors, software, and data analytics to improve operational visibility and execution.
The process of separating products, packages, or shipments according to destination, order, route, or another defined characteristic.
The transportation market in which freight capacity is purchased for individual or short-term shipments at current market rates rather than longer-term contracted pricing.
The price quoted for a specific freight movement based on current transportation market conditions.
A commercial truck with an open cargo bed and vertical stakes or side structures designed to help contain cargo.
The temporary positioning of freight, inventory, or equipment before the next operational activity.
A unique identifier assigned to a specific product or product variation for inventory tracking and management.
A measure of how effectively available warehouse space is used to store inventory.
A commercial vehicle in which the cab and cargo body are mounted on the same chassis.
A company or organization that provides goods, materials, components, or services to another organization.
The interconnected network of organizations, people, facilities, transportation, technology, and processes involved in sourcing materials, producing goods, and moving products to customers.
The use of data, analytical tools, and modeling to evaluate and improve supply chain performance.
An event that interrupts or reduces the normal flow of goods, materials, transportation, or information through a supply chain.
The operational activities required to move goods and fulfill supply chain plans.
The planning and coordination of sourcing, production, inventory, transportation, warehousing, distribution, and related activities.
The use of data, technology, process improvement, and modeling to improve supply chain cost, service, inventory, capacity, and operational performance.
The ability of a supply chain to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disruptions while maintaining or restoring critical operations.
The ability to monitor inventory, shipments, orders, and other activities as goods move through a supply chain.
A configuration in which two axles are positioned close together to distribute vehicle or trailer weight across multiple wheels.
A tax or duty imposed by a government on certain goods entering or leaving a country.
A trucking arrangement in which two qualified drivers operate the same commercial vehicle and alternate driving responsibilities.
Technology that combines telecommunications, vehicle systems, and data collection to transmit information about commercial vehicles.
A request offering a shipment to a carrier for transportation.
A measure of the percentage of freight tenders accepted by a carrier or group of carriers.
A transportation facility where freight, vehicles, or containers are received, transferred, sorted, consolidated, or dispatched.
Outsourcing logistics activities to an external provider. A 3PL can provide services such as transportation, warehousing, distribution, and fulfillment.
The amount of freight, inventory, orders, or other work processed through a facility or operation during a defined period.
Anchoring points installed in a vehicle or trailer cargo area that allow straps, chains, or other cargo securement devices to be attached.
A transportation service in which a shipment is committed for delivery by a specified date, time, or delivery window.
The inspection, maintenance, repair, replacement, and monitoring of commercial vehicle tires.
Ryder's mobile commercial vehicle maintenance service that brings technicians and equipped maintenance vehicles to customer locations to perform preventive maintenance and repairs.
The total cost associated with acquiring, operating, maintaining, and ultimately replacing or disposing of an asset over its lifecycle.
The ability to monitor a shipment or product's location, status, and movement through transportation or supply chain processes.
The powered commercial vehicle used to pull one or more trailers.
A commercial vehicle combination consisting of a powered tractor and one or more trailers used to transport freight.
An unpowered vehicle designed to be pulled by a tractor or other powered vehicle and used to transport freight.
A group of trailers positioned at customer or operating locations to support loading, unloading, and transportation requirements.
The amount of time required for a shipment to travel from its origin to its destination.
The transfer of freight and shipments from one transportation mode, vehicle, or container to another.
The process of transferring goods between transportation modes or equipment.
The physical movement of people or goods from one location to another.
The planning, execution, and optimization of freight movement across carriers, modes, and transportation networks.
Software used to plan, execute, monitor, and optimize freight transportation.
The methods used to move freight, such as truck, rail, ocean, or air.
The interconnected carriers, transportation lanes, facilities, modes, and other resources used to move freight.
The process of sourcing, evaluating, negotiating, and contracting transportation capacity and services.
The total amount an organization spends on freight transportation and related services during a defined period.
An arrangement in which a commercial vehicle is rented for a defined period rather than purchased or leased under a longer-term agreement.
A commercial motor vehicle designed primarily to pull trailers rather than carry cargo on its own chassis.
A freight transportation service in which a truck or trailer is generally dedicated to a single shipment or shipper. Truckload is commonly abbreviated TL and is also frequently referred to as full truckload (FTL).
The amount of time required to complete a transportation, logistics, or commercial vehicle operation before the next activity can begin.
A group of individual items or packages combined and handled as a single unit for storage or transportation.
A period when a commercial vehicle, piece of equipment, or system is unexpectedly unavailable because of a breakdown, failure, or other unscheduled event.
The amount or percentage of time a commercial vehicle, piece of equipment, or system is available and ready for productive use.
A unique identifier used by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration to identify applicable transportation entities and collect and monitor safety information from audits, compliance reviews, crash investigations, and inspections.
A measure of how effectively available commercial vehicle assets, capacity, labor, or other resources are being used in transportation logistics.
Logistics services performed beyond basic transportation or storage that add functionality or prepare products for manufacturing, distribution, or sale. Examples can include kitting, assembly, sequencing, labeling, packaging, customization, and retail display preparation.
The process of identifying, specifying, and obtaining commercial vehicles through purchase, lease, or another acquisition method.
The amount or percentage of time a commercial vehicle is available and ready for operation.
A classification used to group commercial vehicles according to characteristics such as Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
The use of vehicle systems, diagnostic equipment, and data to identify mechanical, electrical, or performance issues.
A systematic examination of a commercial vehicle or its components to identify defects, maintenance needs, or safety concerns.
The stages a commercial vehicle moves through from specification and acquisition through operation, maintenance and eventual replacement or disposal.
The process of managing a commercial vehicle throughout its life to balance operating requirements, maintenance, utilization, cost, and replacement timing.
The inspection, servicing, and repair of a commercial vehicle to support safe and reliable operation.
The total number of miles traveled by a vehicle or group of vehicles during a defined period.
The planned period or criteria used to determine when commercial vehicles should be replaced.
The process of determining the appropriate commercial vehicle configuration and components for a particular application.
The use of GPS, telematics, or other technologies to monitor the location and movement of commercial vehicles.
The ability to access information about the location, status and movement of freight, inventory, vehicles, orders, or other assets.
A facility used to receive, store, manage and distribute goods or materials.
The use of technology, software, robotics, and automated equipment to perform or improve warehouse processes.
Software used to control and coordinate automated material handling equipment within a warehouse.
Software used to coordinate warehouse workflows, labor, and automation during fulfillment operations.
The coordination and control of warehouse activities such as receiving, putaway, inventory management, replenishment, picking, packing, and shipping.
Software used to manage inventory and warehouse activities such as receiving, putaway, storage, replenishment, picking, packing, and shipping.
A group of warehouses, distribution centers, fulfillment centers, or other facilities that work together to store and distribute products.
The use of data, process improvement, technology, and facility design to improve warehouse productivity, inventory flow, space utilization, and labor efficiency.
Robotic technologies used to automate or assist physical warehouse activities such as material movement, picking, sorting, and pallet handling.
The storage and handling of goods within a facility as part of a supply chain, distribution, or fulfillment operation.
A warehouse picking method in which groups of orders are released and picked together according to defined schedules or operational requirements.
A specialized delivery service that provides additional handling beyond standard delivery and can include scheduled delivery, room-of-choice placement, unpacking, assembly, haul-away, or installation.
Materials or products that have entered production but have not yet been completed as finished goods.
The area surrounding or adjacent to a warehouse, distribution center, manufacturing facility, or terminal where trucks, trailers, and containers can be staged or moved.
A physical or technology-assisted review of trailers, containers, or other assets within a facility's yard to verify their location and status.
A driver or operator responsible primarily for moving trailers within a yard and between parking areas and loading docks.
The coordination of trucks, trailers, containers, loading docks, and related movements within a facility's yard.
Software used to manage vehicle, trailer, container, and dock activity within a facility's yard.
A specialized vehicle designed primarily to move trailers within yards, terminals, and distribution facilities.
The ability to monitor the location, status, and movement of trailers, containers, and other assets within a facility's yard.
A warehouse picking method in which workers or automation are assigned to specific areas or zones of a facility.
A parcel distribution strategy in which consolidated shipments are transported closer to their final destinations before entering a parcel carrier's local network, bypassing intermediate shipping zones.
| Acronym | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 3PL | Third-Party Logistics |
| 4PL | Fourth-Party Logistics |
| ADAS | Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems |
| AFV | Alternative Fuel Vehicle |
| AGV | Automated Guided Vehicle |
| AI | Artificial Intelligence |
| AMR | Autonomous Mobile Robot |
| API | Application Programming Interface |
| AS/RS | Automated Storage and Retrieval System |
| ASN | Advanced Shipping Notice |
| BEV | Battery-Electric Vehicle |
| BI | Business Intelligence |
| BOL | Bill of Lading |
| CARB | California Air Resources Board |
| CDL | Commercial Driver's License |
| CMV | Commercial Motor Vehicle |
| DCC | Dedicated Contract Carriage |
| DC | Distribution Center |
| DSD | Direct-Store Delivery |
| DTC | Direct-to-Consumer |
| DVIR | Driver Vehicle Inspection Report |
| EDI | Electronic Data Interchange |
| ELD | Electronic Logging Device |
| EOQ | Economic Order Quantity |
| EPA | Environmental Protection Agency |
| ePOD | Electronic Proof of Delivery |
| ERP | Enterprise Resource Planning |
| ETA | Estimated Time of Arrival |
| EV | Electric Vehicle |
| FCL | Full Container Load |
| FIFO | First-In, First-Out |
| FTL | Full Truckload |
| FUM | Freight Under Management |
| GCWR | Gross Combination Weight Rating |
| GHG | Greenhouse Gas |
| GIS | Geographic Information System |
| GPS | Global Positioning System |
| GTP | Goods-to-Person |
| GVW | Gross Vehicle Weight |
| GVWR | Gross Vehicle Weight Rating |
| HOS | Hours of Service |
| IOR | Importer of Record |
| IoT | Internet of Things |
| JIC | Just-in-Case |
| JIT | Just-in-Time |
| KPI | Key Performance Indicator |
| LCL | Less-Than-Container Load |
| LLP | Lead Logistics Provider |
| LTL | Less-Than-Truckload |
| MC Number | Motor Carrier Number |
| MHE | Material Handling Equipment |
| ML | Machine Learning |
| OMS | Order Management System |
| OOS | Out-of-Service |
| OTD | On-Time Delivery |
| OTIF | On-Time In-Full |
| OTR | Over-the-Road |
| P&D | Pickup and Delivery |
| PM | Preventive Maintenance |
| POD | Proof of Delivery |
| QC | Quality Control |
| RFID | Radio Frequency Identification |
| RFP | Request for Proposal |
| RFQ | Request for Quote |
| SKU | Stock Keeping Unit |
| TCO | Total Cost of Ownership |
| TL | Truckload |
| TMS | Transportation Management System |
| VAS | Value-Added Services |
| VMT | Vehicle Miles Traveled |
| WCS | Warehouse Control System |
| WES | Warehouse Execution System |
| WIP | Work-in-Process |
| WMS | Warehouse Management System |
| YMS | Yard Management System |
