Logistics Terms for Transportation Modes

ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival)
The approximate time a truck, train or shipment is expected to arrive at a location.
POD (Proof of Delivery)
A document used to establish that a shipment is received in full.
BOL (Bill of Lading)
A legal document that lists the details of a shipment in the form of a receipt given by the carrier to the person consigning the goods.
SKU (Stock Keeping Unit)
A product identification code used to track inventory items, often displayed as a barcode.

What Are the Most Important Logistics Terms?

Comprehension of logistics terminology improves overall efficiency and ensures clear communication across a range of different channels, platforms and individuals. Fluency in logistics terminology however, portrays confidence and a complete understanding of the industry in which you conduct business.

Organizations & Departments

Carrier
A commercial business used to transport various types of freight shipments to and from customers and suppliers.
Dispatch
Orchestrates freight, driver and equipment movement from one place to another while keeping close communication with drivers.


Broker
An intermediary between a freight shipper and a carrier who can transport their freight. Brokers are used to connect carriers and trucks to shipment that need transportation.

Truck, Trailer, & Driver

Driver
The individual behind the wheel of the tractor-trailer. The “driver” is not necessarily the owner of the truck, or the motor carrier company who operates it.
Team
A mode of freight shipping in which two drivers’ alternate shifts driving the same truck with the goal of reducing transit time and delivering a shipment sooner.
Owner-Operator
Self-employed commercial truck driver or a small business owner that operates tractor-trailers for the transporting of freight shipments.
Sleeper Cab
A compartment attached to the cabin of a truck used for rest or sleeping. Alternately used to describe any tractor-trailer in which a sleeper cab is attached.
Day Cab
A tractor-trailer in which no sleeper cab is attached to the cabin of the truck. Alternately used to describe any tractor-trailer in which a sleeper cab is not attached.