Reverse logistics has been defined as

“… the term most often used to refer to the role of logistics in product returns, source reduction, recycling, materials substitution, reuse of materials, waste disposal, and refurbishing, repair, and remanufacturing.”¹

In the office imaging industry, reverse logistics refers to the role of logistics when equipment reaches its end-of-lease or end-of-term.  Additionally, it refers to the specific return process for this equipment that eventually leads to its disposition via remarketing, redeployment, or environmentally safe recycling.  The Reverse Supply Chain, as Ross refers to reverse logistics, differs from the forward supply chain in the physical distribution flow.  In the reverse supply chain, inbound logistics follow sporadic or random routing which requires special attention for organization and presents unique challenges.  Most times, equipment takes up space and facility managers are in a rush to remove it from the site.  Forward supply chain, on the other hand, consists of a flow of equipment from a factory and follows a fixed routing schedule, making scheduling an easier process to manage.

Ross International’s Reverse Supply Chain solutions focus on all elements of reverse logistics in the office imaging industry.  With special teams dedicated to the sporadic and random routing processes, Ross RSC makes a difference in managing your needs and reducing overheads.