Walmart Inc.
Inventory mirroring in a heterogeneous fulfillment network

Abstract:

A method of determining an inventory mirroring plan for a set of distinct items in a heterogeneous fulfillment network is presented. The fulfillment network can include a plurality of distribution centers, each distribution center having differing capabilities. The method can include determining a solution value of the number of clusters for each distinct item that minimizes a sum of a total shipping cost of each distinct item, subject to a total distinct item capacity of the plurality of distribution centers in the fulfillment network. The method can further include using a probability of the item being placed in a specific distribution center based on either the capacity of the distribution center or historical data. The probability can be used to stock items. Overages and deficits can be used to further refine the distribution. Other embodiments are also disclosed.