The Royal Charter

The original Royal Charter of the Institute of Transport quotes the objectives of the Institute as including: 'To promote, encourage and co-ordinate the study of the science and art of transport in all its branches.' Modern business logistics is based on much the same concept. It sets out to deliver exactly what the customer wants - at the right time, in the right place and at the right price. Very often transport is a major component of the 'supply chain' which delivers to the customer the goods and services needed.

'Logistics' is the process of designing, managing and improving such supply chains, which might include purchasing, manufacturing, storage and, of course, transport. Transport remains a major component of most supply chains. Certainly limitations of, or restrictions to, transport caused by congestion, taxation or legislation will drastically affect the design and operation of supply chains. Logistics services and other transport companies need to understand logistics and supply chain management in order to tailor their services to meet their customers' needs.

Our legacy organisations…
The former Institute of Logistics and Transport (ILT) was formed in June 1999, following the integration of The Institute of Logistics (IoL) and The Chartered Institute of Transport (CIT). In April 2004 the Institute's membership voted in favour of ILT adopting the word 'Chartered' into its title. In May 2004 the Institute officially became 'The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in the UK - CILT(UK)'.

Historical background…
The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) formerly The Chartered Institute of Transport was formed in 1919 and was granted its Royal Charter in 1926. Growth of its overseas sections led to a restructuring in 1994 under which 10 national councils were established in various parts of the world. The Institute operates as a co-ordinating body and custodian of the Royal Charter. CILT(UK) was formed as the United Kingdom National Council and is the largest national council with over half the total worldwide membership of CILT. All National Councils are effectively 'chartered' through their membership of CILT and are represented on its governing Council. CILT continues to hold the Royal Charter under the authority of the Privy Council. Subject to certain qualifications individual members of any National Council hold chartered status under the authority of this Royal Charter.

Timeline

1926	Institute of Transport granted Royal Charter by King George 5th
1971	Supplemental Charter approves the change of name to Chartered Institute of Transport
2001	Amendment to the 1971 Supplemental Charter approves the change of name to Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport