Abstract
The purpose of this essay is to discuss, under the epistemological prism and some ontological aspects, the nodes of logistics networks. Technical literature and practices related to this theme in the last 70 years to show some paradigm shifts in the definition and function of these nodes. In this discussion, we consider three elements to indicate epistemological ruptures: the semiotic aspects, the causal relationships and the context. In semiotic terms, the end or begin points of a goods and people movement has always been an object of study and attention of academic and practical area of transport and logistics. Several causal relationships and explanatory models for understanding and representation of logistics operations treat the nodes of logistics networks as an essential component of supply chains and has been changing over time. In terms of context there are two major changes that affect logistics and hence nodes of their networks. They are: the different economic eras and the transformation of object moved. Port, airport, terminal, logistics center or logistics platform: What is the most appropriate term? It depends on the context of their use and the role played in logistics network, all are fixed points of networks that ensure local and global flows.
Key words:
terminals; networks; logistic platform.