Distribution structure
A distribution structure is the structuring of the path that a product takes on its way from the producer to the customer.
Structuring criteria
The description takes place, for example, in hierarchical terms, such as a horizontal and vertical distribution structure. "Horizontal" means the bearings on the same structural level (however this is defined), and vertical the correspondingly defined vertical levels.
The distribution structure of a goods distribution system described in this way consists, among other things, of the following elements:
- Number of bearings
- Number of storage levels
- spatial allocation of the warehouse to the sales area
- Which storage types
- Which customers are served by the warehouses
- Which means of transport are used
Not all elements of a distribution structure are present in every analysis. The previous example ignores the transport routes, which are particularly emphasized in other models.
Further structuring criteria consider the ownership structure of the distribution chain (own vehicle fleet, house haulage, freight exchange), the distribution channels (direct sales, sales from own sales outlets, sales through intermediaries ...) national or international distribution and the corresponding geographical breakdown, possibly depending on the chosen means of transport and other, structurally describable criteria.
literature
- Christof Schulte: Logistics. Ways to optimize the supply chain . 6th edition. Verlag Vahlen, Munich 2013, ISBN 978-3-8006-3995-3 (EA Munich 1991).
- Günter Selzer: Distribution logistics. The control of globally networked flows of goods . Shaker Media, Aachen 2010, ISBN 978-3-86858-528-5 .