FORECASTING NEEDS OF THE OPERATIONAL ACTIVITY OF A LOGISTICS OPERATOR

Background: The paper considers the issue of operational needs of logistics operator connected with the implementation of demand forecasting tool in his activity. The aim of this article is to present research results on the ability to meet the expectations of distribution centre managers at the operational level. To achieve the main goal, three research questions concerning general requirements and possibilities of meeting the requirements set by managers working for a logistics operator were also defined and related to operational needs.

Methods: The research analysed the operational requirements of a logistics operator using a survey conducted among managers dealing with the operational work that is performed in the operator's warehouses. Then, the possibility of implementing and operating a forecasting tool based on the ARIMA algorithm in the logistics service of a confectionery manufacturer was analysed, providing the verification of usefulness of such a tool and the level of its adjustment to operational requirements.

Results: The forecasting tool is especially useful in the operator's activity in order to support the resource planning process of warehouse operation. However, managers set high requirements regarding the verifiability of the operation of such a tool, which is not completely available in the current situation. The article also shows the future development paths of this tool.

Conclusions: The article shows possibilities related to the use of a forecasting tool in activities related to the provision of services in contract logistics. This allows for verification of the needs and capabilities of the logistics operator who would forecast the demand to support the operations it carries out.