Question

For the Somerset Furniture Company described in Case Problem 10.1 in Chapter 10, determine the product lead time by developing a time line from the initiation of a purchase order to product delivery. Discuss the company‘s possible transportation modes and channels in China and to and within the United States, and the likelihood of potential problems. Identify and discuss how international trade specialist(s), trade logistics companies, and/or Internet exchanges might help Somerset reduce its product lead time and variability.

Answer 1

Answer:

Possible transportation modes are discussed below in detail.

Explanation:

• Purchase Request: 12 - 25 days

• Process buy request abroad: 10 - 20 days.

• Manufacturing process: 60 days

• Transport from plant to port: 1-14 days

• Paperwork: 5 - 10 days

• Wait for the container: 1 - 7 days*

• Load compartments: 3 - 6 days

• Ship days: 28 days

• Custom clearance: 7 – 14 days

• Warehouse transportation: 1-3 days

Delivery time is around 136 minimum days and  191  maximum days. Likewise,  the average delivery time is 163 days. Companies such as international trade specialist, trade logistics companies and Internet exchanges can help the company to reduce the delivery time by facilitating the trade channels. These intermediate channels can help to attain objectives in timely manner.