Reverse Logistics Management

There is a new area on reverse logistics. In 1980s, the word of reverse logistics appeared in an overseas journal. In the early of 1990s, reverse logistics is beginning to be widely concerned by some developed countries as the governments and consumers are more concerned about environment. China has paid much attention to forward logistics, but there is little concern on reverse logistics. As China entered WTO, Chinese companies will be confronted with fierce competition. It is necessary for Chinese companies to set up reverse logistics system. Reverse logistics is close to benefits of government and companies. Reverse logistics can help government to strengthen environment protection and save resource. Meanwhile, reverse logistics can help companies to reduce cost and increase customer service level and competition.This paper defines reverse logistics and describes reverse logistics practices and barriers to implementing good reverse logistics practices and the importance to develop reverse logistics. A portion of the research charter was to determine the extent of reverse logistics activity and compare reverse logistics to forward logistics further to emphasize the importance of reverse logistics. This paper also describes the effective measures of good reverse logistics practices and offers some suggestions for Chinese companies to implement good reverse logistics practices according to Chinese situation. By describing a case on reverse logistics implemented in the automotive field, this paper suggests great significance in the point of practice view. Finally, this paper summarizes the research and points out some problems and developing trends for reverse logistics.