Manufacturers,
distributors and retailers receive materials and goods as well as ship finished
goods. The distribution network is the collection of suppliers, transportation
services, warehouses, manufacturing plants and customers including the movement
of materials and goods between them. Our distribution network design method
covers these key activities:
- Economic analysis: Analysis of the existing cost of
distribution for the full volume of storage and movements across the entire
network
- Building requirements: Based upon the existing and
forecasted volume and mix of product moving through the network, we determine
the basic facility requirements needed to maintain efficient and effective
product flow
- Distribution network modeling: Delivers superior recommendations
for location and corresponding size of distribution centers, systematic
modeling accounts for the full range of warehouse and transportation costs, as
well as customer service requirements
- Facility optimization: Determines the physical layout,
material handling and staffing strategies that ensure each facility is designed
for highest service levels and lowest cost within its “four walls”
- Transportation lane analysis (inbound/outbound): Leverages a distribution network
study to establish transportation flows necessary for maintaining high levels
of customer service and closely managing costs