Guide · KPIs
A logistics KPI dictionary: ten numbers everyone agrees on.
Most logistics reviews argue about numbers before they argue about problems. Write each KPI down once, with its target, before the next review.
These are the ten KPIs and targets used in SCM for Manufacturers. Use them as a starting point and adjust targets to your network; what matters is one definition, computed the same way for the company, the 3PL and the carrier.
| KPI | Definition | Target |
|---|---|---|
| OTIF | Units delivered within lane standard +10% and zero damage ÷ units dispatched | ≥ 95% |
| Placement SLA | Carrier reported at the holding yard ≤ 12 h after indent acceptance | ≥ 95% |
| Gate TAT | ANPR gate-in to gate-out, across 8 events | ≤ 2 h 30 m |
| Load factor | Units loaded ÷ carrier capacity, weighted by trips | ≥ 93% |
| Empty running | Empty km ÷ total km | ≤ 40% |
| Damage rate | Units with transit damage ÷ units delivered | ≤ 0.25% |
| Checklist first-pass | Checklists cleared without re-submission | ≥ 97% |
| Hisab close time | Submission to payment | ≤ 2 days |
| Ticket SLA | Resolved within priority SLA | ≥ 95% |
| kg CO₂e per pallet | ISO 14083, fuel-based, well-to-wheel | −8% year on year |
Rules that keep KPIs trusted
- One definition and one target per KPI, written down.
- Computed in one system from data each party can inspect.
- Every miss attributed to an owner with a reason.
- Reviewed weekly; targets changed only at a planned review.
Deeper reading: OTIF vs fill rate, gate TAT, empty running, freight CO₂e. Try the OTIF calculator.
Questions
What are the most important logistics KPIs for manufacturers?
OTIF, placement SLA, gate TAT, load factor, empty running, damage rate and freight CO₂e, each with one written definition and target.
Why do logistics KPIs disagree between teams?
Because each team defines them differently: different promise dates, windows and points of measurement. One written dictionary fixes it.
See it on your own data. SCM for Manufacturers puts the plant gate, carriers, RDC stock, cold chain and OTIF on one control tower. Book a 30-minute working session with an engineer.