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6.4.3 Warehousing and distribution strategies

We have covered warehousing concepts in Logistics Management and are aware of the traditional functions. Reading 6.3 also deals extensively with warehousing techniques. Warehouses in a supply chain balance the differences between the rates of consumption and production by keeping enough stocks to meet market demands with the required level of service. One of the vital components of the required stock level for a particular SKU or item is the safety stock, the level of which is dependent on the demand variability. What happens to the required safety stock when warehouses are eliminated from the supply chain because of direct shipment and cross docking strategies? The need for safety stock is as strong as ever, but this stock will move to the distribution system with each store keeping a sufficient level of safety stock for a longer lead time.

In your text

See pages 134 -136 in your text for a general discussion on these distribution strategies.

Reading 6.4

Huppertz, P (1999, March) 'Market changes require new supply chain thinking', Transportation and Distribution , pp.70, 72 and 74.

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