Use demand, reservations, and transfer costs to rebalance inventory before placing another supplier order.
Where this helps
One branch is expediting replenishment while another holds weeks of the same item. A network inventory report is useful only if it accounts for open orders and the cost and timing of a transfer.
What Rectangle connects
Combine ERP demand and reservations with WMS available inventory, replenishment lead times, and branch transport schedules. Calculate usable surplus after protected stock and near-term commitments. Compare the transfer’s arrival and cost with a supplier replenishment option.
Find the imbalance North: 20 available · demand 10/day · 2 days cover
- West: 300 available · demand 10/day · 30 days cover
- West protected minimum: 14 days = 140 units.
A closer look
Use demand, reservations, and transfer costs to rebalance inventory before placing another supplier order.
Compare replenishment options Move 120 bearings from West to North on tomorrow’s shuttle. Both branches stay above the protected minimum.
| Branch | Before | After transfer |
|---|---|---|
| North | 20 units · 2 days | 140 units · 14 days |
| West | 300 units · 30 days | 180 units · 18 days |
The shuttle costs $75, versus $220 for a supplier expedite arriving in three days. The transfer is faster and uses $145 less freight.
From answer to action
The planner receives specific item quantities, origin branches, expected cover, and transfer costs. A reviewed transfer can create the ERP movement and warehouse pick task. Physical receipt closes the loop so inventory is not counted at both locations.
Prepare the transfer Draft TR-6104 · 120 bearings · West → North
- Origin pick and destination receipt references linked.
- Reserve only after planner approval.
- Destination availability updates after receiving.
Use stock already in the network without exporting the shortage to another branch.
