The term Start of Shipment (SOS) refers to the decisive point in time at which a product is physically ready for delivery to end customers by logistics after its official launch.
Definition
The Start of Shipment (SOS) is the official start of the supply chain, marking the availability of a new product on the market for the end customer. It covers the period from the initial product launch to the actual provision of goods for shipping and distribution.
Key Aspects of Start of Shipment (SOS)
- Production completion: The phase in which the manufacturing of the product is completed and it is ready for further processing.
- Quality Assurance Necessary tests and checks to ensure product quality before shipment.
- Inventory and Warehousing Recording of products in the merchandise management system and their physical storage.
- Ready for shipment The point at which the product is released for picking, packaging and transportation to the end customer.
Meaning for Supply Chains
An effective management of the Start of Shipment (SOS) is critical for the market launch and success of new products. It ensures that customers have timely access to advertised items, minimizes wait times, and optimizes the entire supply chain from launch to delivery.