Fordelingscentral

Fordelingscentral is a central node in a distribution network used to receive goods from suppliers and to distribute them to customers, retailers, or other facilities. In Norwegian logistics, the term describes both physical facilities and automated hubs that consolidate, sort, store, and route merchandise.

Key functions include inbound receiving, sorting and cross-docking, temporary storage, inventory control, order fulfillment, packing and labeling, and returns processing. A fordelingscentral coordinates transportation by scheduling inbound shipments and planning outbound routes to optimize lead times and freight costs.

Common types include regional distribution centers, national distribution centers, e-commerce fulfillment centers, and cross-docking facilities. The operation may range from manual handling to highly automated systems featuring warehouse management software, conveyors, automated storage and retrieval systems, and robotics.

Performance is measured by service levels, on-time and in-full delivery, inventory turnover, accuracy, and total landed cost. Management focuses on capacity planning, demand forecasting, seasonal adjustments, and labor optimization to maintain efficient throughput.

While traditionally associated with physical goods, distribution centers increasingly interconnect with digital platforms, enabling real-time tracking, demand sensing, and enhanced visibility across the supply chain. Sustainability initiatives, such as energy-efficient buildings and optimized routing, are also rising in importance.