Simulation of the Optimal Location for a Distribution Center of E-Commerce Operations in São Paulo State

Abstract

This paper presents a simulation study about location of distribution center seeking to obtain the optimization of the delivery process in e-commerce. Currently, the delivery time of products to consumers is relatively large. The optimal location of a distribution center provides a strategic character of great importance for most of the companies promoting greater competitiveness between them due to shorter delivery times, ensuring greater customer satisfaction. The proposed simulation model is valid to determine the distribution center location (CD). The simulation rounds produced three scenarios with unique characteristics and different locations for the distribution center. The ideal location for a distribution center of e-commerce operations in the State of Sao Paulo is the city of Jau because it has lower total mileage and lower shipping cost. Regarding infrastructure, the city of Jau features more suitable conditions than the other two CDs suggested by simulation rounds, facilitating installation and logistics process.