Perusvarasto

Perusvarasto, sometimes described in English as base stock, is a term used in inventory and warehouse management to denote the minimum level of inventory a storage location should hold to maintain continuity during replenishment lead times. It represents the stock kept on hand at the base facility to meet expected demand until new supply arrives. The aim is to prevent stockouts that could disrupt production or order fulfillment and to sustain an acceptable service level.

Calculation and factors. Perusvarasto is typically calculated as the forecasted consumption during lead time plus a buffer for uncertainty. The exact method depends on the planning approach, but common elements include average demand during lead time, variability in demand, target service level, supplier reliability, and available storage capacity. Seasonal patterns and promotion campaigns may also influence the base stock level.

Management and application. In practice, perusvarasto is managed with inventory control systems that monitor stock levels and trigger replenishments when the level reaches the base stock threshold. It can be applied to raw materials, work-in-progress, or finished goods, and is used in continuous review (reorder point) or periodic review planning.

Relation to other stock types. Perusvarasto is distinct from cycle stock, which covers normal operations within a period, and from safety stock, which guards against uncertainty. The concept is common in Finnish logistics literature and is often aligned with broader supply chain planning, including procurement, production, and distribution.

Notes. The exact definition and usage can vary by industry and company, and some organizations may use related terms such as base stock level to describe the same concept.