Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Abstract:
This study examined models transportation problems and distribution cost of sachet water in a water producing company in Edo State. The specific objectives were to: investigate the shortest route that minimizes the cost of distribution from the factory to their respective distribution channels and to develop the shortest optimal possible route for sachet water distribution in Ekpoma. Six (6) distribution outlets namely: Ujemen, Ihummudumu, Emaudo, Opoji, Eguare and Ehuakhuala regions of Ekpoma, Edo State were selected in the study. These distribution regions are daily supplied bags and packs of table water. The result of the model shows a minimum cost of N425,750 (approximately 2838bags at N150). This explains that by using the least cost method, a producer can minimize cost (production/ transportation) problems to N425,750 and still be able to deliver maximum supply to all its buyers in the selected regions of D1, D2, D3, D4, D5 and D6 which represents, Ujemen, Ihummudumu, Emaudo, Opoji, Eguare and Ehuakhuala regions of Ekpoma, Edo State respectively. Also, to minimize the cost of distribution from the factory to their respective distribution channels in Ekpoma is to ensure total supply to point D1 by S1, total supply must be transported by point S2 to point D3 for sale, supply of 105, 1600 and 245 bags must be supplied by S3 only to D1, D2 and D3. Also, S4 and S5 must transport 1600 and 1750bags to point D4 and D6. Lastly, to ensure a balance from the initial supply shortage of 2665, production capacity must be increased to cater for the initial supply shortage. Also, the produced bags must be transport to point D4, D5 and D6 for equitable distribution after production. The study recommended that production engineers should ensure they provide advisory services to their drivers and the management of their company on distribution schedules using linear cost method to determine the route and quantity that minimizes distribution cost and maximizes profit for their organization.

Keywords: Modelling, Transportation Problems, Distribution Cost, Sachet Water

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