Automotive mechanic in blue overalls holding a wrench and red cloth, working on a vehicle in a workshop setting.
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Demand Planning in Vehicle Logistics:
Set the Pace for Your Yard and Workshop Operations

Jun 5, 2025 Lill Haase

Why Strategic Planning is Critical in Vehicle Logistics

Imagine a highly motivated marathon runner—fit, focused, but without a plan. He starts with a sprint, burns out, and fails to reach the finish line. Without a strategy, even top performance can fall short.

The same applies to vehicle logistics: Without solid planning, organizations lose time, money, and reliability. Especially in vehicle yards and workshop operations, lack of visibility and spontaneous decision-making can lead to overload, downtime, or missed SLAs.

Aerial view of a crowded yard filled with various cars, showcasing a mix of colors and styles.

Typical Consequences of Poor Planning in Workshops and Yards

Professionals in vehicle logistics are familiar with these challenges:

  • Staff shortages lead to overtime, bottlenecks, and unhappy customers
  • Overcapacity results in unnecessary costs and idle time
  • Lack of visibility prevents proactive management
  • Ad hoc decisions disrupt internal and external coordination
     

Demand Planning: Making Vehicle Logistics Predictable

Demand planning is the smart way to manage workshops and yards efficiently. Instead of reacting, you plan ahead—based on real-time data and accurate forecasts.

The Three Pillars of Successful Logistics Planning:

1. Visibility

Know today what your workload will be in 2 days, 2 weeks, or 2 months—and act accordingly.

2. Scenario Planning

What if a major new order comes in or a workshop suddenly shuts down? Simulate scenarios before they become reality.

3. Optimization

Base your decisions on KPIs instead of gut feeling. Maintain efficiency, meet SLAs, and improve customer satisfaction.

 

Use Case: How All Roles Benefit from Demand Planning

A well-structured planning process enhances collaboration across the entire vehicle logistics chain:
 

  • Account Managers make realistic commitments based on real capacity
  • Operations Planners use tools for precise utilization and resource planning
  • Customers enjoy reliable ETAs, consistent service, and responsive logistics

 

Conclusion: Stay Ahead in the Vehicle Logistics Marathon

Efficient workshop and yard operations don't just happen - they're the result of smart, data-driven planning. 

With INFORMS's demand planning software, you gain full visibility over your workload, make confident decisions across teams, and stay agile in a fast-moving logistics environment. 

If you're ready to take the next step:


Plan today - deliver tomorrow. With INFORM, you set the pace. 

About our Expert

Lill Haase

Lill Haase

Product Marketing Manager

Lill Haase has been part of INFORM since 2023. She has been focusing on Vehicle Logistics ever since – turning complex topics into clear, accessible messages. In her work, she puts strong emphasis on customer relevance, clarity, and trust.

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