VDA Volume 6.8: A strategic standard for auditing automotive supply chain processes
In an industrial environment characterized by increasingly complex supply chains, the VDA 6.8 manual, issued by the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), offers a structured, risk-based approach to auditing logistics processes. It applies to the entire logistics chain—from strategic planning to customer management—and aims to improve the transparency, reliability, and performance of logistics flows.
1. A modular and targeted structure
The framework consists of seven process elements (L1 to L7), each of which is assessed using a turtle diagram and a structured questionnaire:
- L1: Project management/strategy
- L2: Logistics process planning
- L3: Supplier and service provider management
- L4: Supply logistics
- L5: Transport logistics
- L6: Internal logistics
- L7: Customer relationship management
This modular structure makes it possible to audit all or part of the logistics processes depending on the scope under consideration, and to manage corrective actions with precision.
2. Key benefits of VDA 6.8
- Exclusive application to logistics processes (unlike VDA 6.3)
- Risk-based approach using the turtle diagram and detailed analysis
- Specific assessment of critical issues (question marks)
- No degradation rules for sub-elements
- Introduction of a self-assessment and inter-site comparison system
- Integration of ESG, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance requirements
3. Implementation: qualification and field audit
VDA 6.8 training includes simulated audits, analysis of 8D reports, exercises in drafting findings and managing audit meetings. Auditors are trained to ask open-ended questions, seek objective evidence, and draw conclusions based on risk assessment.
The software tool developed by VDA QMC allows the VDA 6.8 standard to be used in a similar way to VDA 6.3. For users of the existing VDA 6.3 analysis software, the VDA 6.8 questionnaire will be available as an “upgrade.”
Conclusion
VDA 6.8 is establishing itself as a strategic tool for managing and controlling logistics processes in the automotive industry. Thanks to its rigorous approach and compatibility with OEM requirements, it helps structure audits, secure flows, and anticipate risks. It effectively complements existing quality initiatives and strengthens the resilience of supply chains in a globalized environment.
Additional focus: VDA 6.8 vs. MMOG/LE
While MMOG/LE (Materials Management Operations Guideline / Logistics Evaluation) is widely used to assess the overall maturity of suppliers’ logistics systems, VDA 6.8 takes a more operational approach focused on the analysis of concrete processes. The two tools are complementary but differ in their purpose and structure.
MMOG/LE is structured in six chapters covering aspects of logistics management in the broadest sense. It is based primarily on supplier self-assessment using a standardized questionnaire and identifies weaknesses across the entire logistics system.
Conversely, VDA 6.8 focuses on field audits based on concrete evidence and structured around seven logistics elements. It enables a precise, process-wide assessment of logistics performance in targeted areas.
Summary comparison:
How can you learn about the requirements of VDA 6.8?
Take part in our related training programs:
