Quick Summary: The Distribution Center tab shows projected inventory requirements for locations that are supplied by the current warehouse. It helps planners understand future transfer needs and navigate directly to downstream location demand drivers.
Why the Distribution Center (DC) Tab Matters
The DC tab provides visibility into how downstream locations will draw stock from the current warehouse. It helps planners anticipate inter-location transfer demand, align upstream purchasing with network needs, and avoid shortages caused by unplanned distribution activity.
How to Read the Distribution Center (DC) Tab
Navigate to the Item Inquiry screen > DC tab.
The Distribution Center tab appears when the current location acts as a supplying warehouse for one or more other locations. When this condition is met, a marker appears on the DC tab to indicate that projected requirements exist for downstream locations.
Each linked location is displayed as a separate row in the grid. Monthly columns show the projected requirement for upcoming months.
Click the "i" icon next to a value to view the detailed breakdown of projected orders contributing to that requirement for the selected location and month. This allows you to validate quantities and timing.
Select a location name in the grid to open the Item Inquiry screen for the same item at that specific location. This enables quick investigation of stock levels, forecasts, and replenishment policies at dependent sites.
Requirement Versus Demand
The values shown in the DC tab represent projected requirements, not raw demand.
A location may generate high customer demand, but if that location already has sufficient stock on hand, the projected requirement displayed here may be zero.
This distinction is important because the DC tab reflects future replenishment needs rather than sales forecasts.
⚠️ Watchouts
Confusing demand with requirement: The DC tab shows replenishment requirements, not sales demand. A zero value does not mean no customer demand exists, only that no replenishment is currently required.
Ignoring downstream dependencies: Focusing only on the supplying location without reviewing dependent location requirements can result in unexpected transfer shortages.
💡 Tips
Use location navigation regularly: Clicking into downstream locations helps validate that forecasts, stock levels, and policies are aligned across the network.
Review monthly trends: Scanning future months highlights upcoming transfer spikes and helps avoid last-minute inventory pressure.
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