Logistics System at a Clay Mine in La Guajira, Colombia

Abstract

In Colombia, a significant portion of small-scale mining is conducted on an artisanal basis, lacking formal organizational structures and technological advancements. Operations are primarily carried out using manual tools such as picks, shovels, and wooden molds for brick production. This study was conducted through descriptive research and focused on a non-experimental design research method. The results identified how the logistics function is developed and described the logistics information system at the Barrocol de Carretalito clay mine in Barrancas, La Guajira. The identification of the logistics function highlighted the necessity for machinery and technological tools to improve inventory management and tracking. A template is proposed as a production planning tool, along with a structured design of the production process and a graphical representation of management model tailored to the mine’s needs. To fully comply with the identified criteria, the mine must utilize engineering tools for suppliers selection, effectively develop transportation indicators, and establish a comprehensive logistics process. The distribution of logistics costs was also analyzed, revealing the need for improvements in customer service.