Chain logistics is defined as striving towards logistical integration between different organizations in the chain. Examples vary from physical integration (e.g. standardization of pallets) to organizational integration (e.g. vendor managed inventory).

Chain logistics is critical
Chain logistics plays a critical role in the sale of agricultural products. Market developments demand the agricultural supply chain to respond in a quick and high-frequent manner to changing market needs. Products have to be delivered within a manageable and reliable lead time to a great diversity of outlets. As far as the agribusiness is concerned, the guarantee of product quality becomes more and more important. Customers have more specific wishes, in which product quality has to be guaranteed and the delivered product needs to have details of its origin and nutritional value.The market aside, the government and society also exert their share of the pressure. This has resulted in setting stricter regulations to reduce the demands on the environment, the space and living conditions.If chain logistics can accomplish its role efficiently, it can help, on the one hand, to cater to the demands of the consumer, and, on the other hand, to reduce unnecessary transport and the demands on the environment.

Areas of research
Electronic commerce: Strategic project in which EC-Pack investigates the 'optimal' e-commerce distribution structure for perishable products
Quality based tracing and tracking: In several strategic projects, EC-Pack is investigating the possibilities of setting up a T&T system which includes dynamic information about product quality
Cost-benefit analysis of a new CA reefer container. EC-Pack is developing a high- tech reefer container for the transport of perishables. Objectives are to reduce the energy use, to incorporate renewable energy resources, and to optimise product quality by on-line measuring product activity. A cost-benefit analysis is part the of research.
Intermodal transport in the agribusiness: For the Dutch government, a strategic study is performed on the opportunities of intermodal transport in the agribusiness.

Successful projects
ECR: Together with four main suppliers of fresh-refrigerated products and three retailers, the concepts of cross-docking, continuous replenishment and joint distribution have been investigated.
3-in-1: Together with a main wholesaler and a main caterer, combining the delivery of fresh, frozen and dry groceries has been investigated and implemented in practice.
Agro-logistics 2015: For the Dutch government, a policy study has been performed for developing a vision on the future supply chain of perishables.
International supply chain projects
Tracking & tracing of fresh and frozen fish