Material handling requirements for a distribution center

The author describes a phased modeling approach used to evaluate material handling alternatives and operational changes for a high-volume food packaging, warehousing, and distribution plant. The goals of the project were to recommend methods for improving both throughput and storage capacity within the existing facility in order to accommodate anticipated increases in inventory and customer order volume. Detailed micro models were developed for the major material handling systems to examine different equipment configurations and operational procedures. Once the best alternatives were identified in each area of the facility, a macro model encompassing the entire distribution facility was developed. The macro model was used to evaluate throughput, material flow, material handling equipment utilization, and resource allocation