Lean Logistics Applied to Distribution Centers: A Case Study in a National Logistics Operator

Abstract

The research focuses on the application of Lean logistics in the Distribution Center of a Logistics Operator, highlighting appropriate logistics methods and addressing challenges in this context. Furthermore, it seeks to analyze the Lean methodology employed by the Logistics Operator, contextualizing it in the domain of services enriched by concepts, approaches, and techniques derived from the Toyota Production System. The study adopts a qualitative and quantitative scientific approach, including a case study. The successful application of Lean in services requires an understanding of principles, fundamentals, and mastery of specific tools such as VSM, SMED, Heijunka, and Kanban. The results highlight Lean processes and showcase problem resolution, resulting in significant gains in Lead Time, achieving a 63% improvement. The study underscores the relevance of Lean in maintaining organizational gains, continuously promoting improvements, and reducing costs, reinforcing the applicability and effectiveness of Lean in the logistics context, with potential benefits for organizations.