What is the term for the movement of goods throughout the supply chain?

The movement of goods throughout the supply chain is best described by the term "logistics." Logistics encompasses a broader scope than just transportation, as it involves the planning, implementation, and control of the flow and storage of goods, services, and related information from the point of origin to the point of consumption. This includes not only the physical movement of goods, which is covered under transportation, but also warehousing, inventory management, order fulfillment, and even demand planning.

While transportation is a critical component of logistics, focusing solely on the physical transfer of goods between locations misses the overall complexity of managing that transfer effectively as part of a larger system. Distribution typically refers to the process of making goods available for use or consumption, often emphasizing the end-user or retail aspect rather than the entire chain's flow.

Therefore, "logistics" is the comprehensive term that best captures the intricate details of moving goods through various stages and locations within the supply chain, encompassing all necessary activities to ensure products arrive at their destinations efficiently and effectively.