How Companies Choose the Best Import Supply Chain?

What is it about?

Importing products involves much more than moving goods from one country to another. Companies must decide which ports, transportation routes, and logistics processes will provide the best balance between cost, delivery time, and customer service. This teaching case follows the challenge faced by an international logistics manager who must design the best import chain for a new customer importing products from China to Brazil. By comparing different port and logistics options, readers learn how supply chain decisions affect business performance, costs, and service quality. The case helps students and practitioners understand the trade-offs involved in import planning and demonstrates how data-driven analysis can support better logistics and supply chain decisions.

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Photo by Barrett Ward on Unsplash

Photo by Barrett Ward on Unsplash

Why is it important?

Global supply chains have become increasingly complex due to rising logistics costs, port congestion, geopolitical uncertainty, and changing trade conditions. This teaching case presents a realistic decision-making scenario in which managers must choose the most appropriate import chain rather than simply the lowest-cost option. Unlike traditional logistics cases that focus on operational calculations, this case highlights the strategic trade-offs between cost, lead time, risk, and service level. It encourages readers to evaluate multiple alternatives and understand how import chain design directly influences business competitiveness. The case provides a practical learning experience that is relevant for both university education and professional training in international logistics and supply chain management.

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