01Why Retail and consumer goods (FMCG) needs specialised logistics
FMCG logistics means rapid turnover, tight shelf SLAs, complex promotions and seasonal peaks (Easter, Christmas). DC-to-store flow dominates in Europe.
Requirements differ significantly from standard LCL logistics: different documents, different equipment, different safety standards.
02Typical goods and trade flows
Main commodities: Food, beverages, cosmetics, paper hygiene, household products.
Flows usually go from a small number of production and raw-material sources to global distribution centres. Transit time, frequency and capacity booking are therefore critical.
03Equipment and packaging
Standard pooled pallets (EPAL, CHEP), display packs, reusable totes, roll cages.
Equipment choice directly affects transport cost, CO₂ footprint and damage rate. Recommendation: agree an equipment concept with the carrier before requesting the first quote.
04Compliance and regulatory framework
Key frameworks: EU food law, labelling requirements, packaging laws, EPR fees, supply-chain traceability.
Beyond those, industry-specific certificates and audits (e.g. supplier audits, AEO, TAPA) are typically prerequisites for market access.
Questions fréquentes
Which Incoterm should I use for Retail and consumer goods (FMCG)?
In practice, DAP is the industry default. The final choice depends on country, sales model and tax situation — always have the term reviewed by customs and tax advisers before contract.
Which regulations are most critical?
The frameworks named above — particularly EU food law, labelling requirements — should be embedded in your SOPs and audit programme.