Logistics is the art and science of managing and controlling the flow of goods, energy, information and other resources. It is the process of strategically managing the procurement, movement and storage of materials, parts, and finished inventory (and the related information flows) through the organization and its marketing channels in such a way that current and future profitability are maximized through the cost-effective fulfillment of orders.

In an industrial context, logistics means the art and science of obtaining, producing, and distributing material and product in the proper place and in proper quantities. In a military sense, its meaning can also include the movement of personnel.