The Scenario: You are named as the new Canadian distributor of aluminum and fibreglass ladders which are manufactured and shipped out of a large factory in Jacksonville, Florida - USA. You will operate distribution centres in Vancouver BC, Calgary AB, Regina SK, Winnipeg MB and Toronto ON for sales in those specific population centres. Your forecast of demand will be 12 pallets of product per week for each distribution centre.

The Assignment: Keeping in mind modes of transport and their shipping times, cost of shipping, frequency requirements, efficiency of space...

(5 marks) Describe the shipping schedule you will employ and why. (5 marks) Describe the distribution pattern you will employ and why. (5 marks) Describe the mode(s) of transportation you will select and why. (5 marks) Describe how you will react to an expected (forecasted) one-month factory shutdown to ensure continuity of supply for your customers in Canada.

Issues to Consider: How far can the goods travel without being damaged? What is the maximum capacity? Are the loads high value, low volume OR low value, high volume? Do the goods require specialized containers? Where are the goods loaded and unloaded How many modes of transportation are necessary? Does the service provider offer door-to-door delivery, or will other arrangements need to be made? Will bulk handling be necessary? What transportation mode best fits the operation? Does the provider provide a tracking service?