What is the Difference Between Reorder Level and Reorder Quantity?

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The difference between reorder level and reorder quantity lies in their purpose and calculation in inventory management:

  • Reorder Level: This is the stock level of a specific product at which a new order for additional stock is placed. Reorder level is typically determined based on factors such as lead time, demand variability, and desired service level. The main goal of reorder level is to ensure that stock is available when needed and to prevent stockouts or disruptions in the supply chain.
  • Reorder Quantity: This refers to the number of units to be ordered while placing a new purchase order. Reorder quantity is determined based on factors such as demand forecast, economic order quantity (EOQ), storage capacity, and more. The main goal of reorder quantity is to optimize inventory management by determining the right quantity to order, balancing the costs of ordering and holding inventory.

In summary, reorder level is the trigger for placing a new order, while reorder quantity determines the size of the order. These two concepts work together to ensure smooth and efficient inventory management.

Comparative Table: Reorder Level vs Reorder Quantity

Here is a table highlighting the differences between Reorder Level and Reorder Quantity:

Feature Reorder Level Reorder Quantity
Definition Reorder Level is the inventory level at which a purchase requisition is generated for a fresh supply of material. Reorder Quantity refers to the size of the material lot for which an order is placed with the chosen supplier.
Main Element Time Quantity/Number of Units
Purpose Helps in ascertaining when to buy or place the order for the material lot. Facilitates in determining how much quantity of materials to be purchased by the firm.
Factors Considered Maximum consumption during lead time, lead time taken by the supplier, safety level, replenishment period. Average daily usage, average lead time, cost per order, carrying cost per unit.
Formula Re-order Level = Maximum Consumption × Maximum Reorder Period (or) Re-order Level = Minimum Stock Level + (Average Rate of Consumption × Average Reorder Period). Reorder Quantity = √(2 × Quantity Required × Cost per Order / Carrying Cost per Unit).

Reorder Level acts as a trigger or indication for placing the order for an item, while Reorder Quantity is the actual act of calculating the number of units to be ordered in a new purchase order for the item.