Managing the supply chain with standard mixed loads

Describes the complementary standard mixed loads concept (the standard mix concept in short), which allows for assembling mixed loads at an upstream echelon. These standard mixed loads are assigned to customer orders at an echelon downstream of the chain. Describes two applications of the use of the standard mix concept in order to identify up‐front the logistic advantages, both in inventory reduction and in handling reduction. Presents the basic principles of the concept and offers some mathematical modelling. Describes the effects on the inventory at the various points of the supply chain, and presents some simulation results. Concludes that the concept offers new perspectives for supply chain management and intermodal transport.