Glossary illustration: Good distribution practice

Definition

Good distribution practice (GDP/BPD) is the storage and transport operating discipline that supports custody of regulated products (e.g. medical devices).

If you search “what is good distribution practice”, you need definition + evidence — not a decorative PDF.

A logo without validity or scope is marketing.

What it means in practice

Good distribution practice (GDP/BPD) is the storage and transport operating discipline that supports custody of regulated products (e.g. medical devices).

On Mexico–US lanes, role (shipper, 3PL, carrier) and corridor matter.

How panel / AP uses it

1.Onboarding

Ask for current status and scope.

2.Tender

Bind it to the scorecard.

3.Trip

Archive proof on the ID.

Minimum process

  1. Define

    Role and lane

  2. Ask

    Evidence

  3. Validate

    Validity

  4. Archive

    Trip ID

Typical mistakes

1.Old PDF

No validity date.

2.Not bound to tender

The logo does not assign the trip.

Sources and further reading

  1. Guide: /blog/documented-custody-fda-cofepris-medical-devices
  2. Hub: /blog/supply-chain-security-certifications-mexico-us
  3. Comparison: /blog/ctpat-vs-oea-vs-certified-trade-partner
Key takeaways5 points
  1. Good distribution practice (GDP/BPD) is the storage and transport operating discipline that supports custody of regulated products (e.g. medical devices).
  2. Use it as a panel criterion or product, not a loose logo.
  3. Guide: /blog/documented-custody-fda-cofepris-medical-devices
  4. Hub: /blog/supply-chain-security-certifications-mexico-us
  5. OCL does not certify; it helps require evidence on the trip ID.

Want evidence on the tender?

30-min diagnostic on panel and trip file.

Frequently asked questions