O PAPEL DA ROTEIRIZAÇÃO E DA ECONOMIA DE ESCALA NA REDUÇÃO DOS CUSTOS LOGÍSTICOS EM UMA COOPERATIVA AGROINDUSTRIAL DE GOIÁS: RELATO DE EXPERIÊNCIA

Abstract

This work, developed as an experience report, analyzes the optimization of logistics costs in the fertilizer shipping process at an agro-industrial cooperative located in the state of Goiás. The study identifies inefficiencies in the initial scenario, such as the underutilization of vehicle capacity and the absence of systematized route planning, factors that increased operational costs. The objective is to report the practical application of route planning and economies of scale concepts as strategies for reducing these costs. The research adopts a qualitative approach, based on replacing a reactive model, based exclusively on contractual dates, with an anticipatory system for consolidating loads. To this end, the Sweep Method is applied, a technique that allows for the visual and geographical grouping of deliveries in the same region. The results show that route optimization reduces the impact of distance on transportation costs, confirming, in practice, the principle of funneling, according to which the cost per kilometer decreases on longer and more continuous routes. In parallel, consolidating loads in larger capacity vehicles promotes economies of scale and reduces the unit cost per ton transported. It is concluded that adopting a strategic logistics trade-off, through the temporary retention of orders to enable load consolidation, constitutes a relevant management decision capable of reducing the total logistics cost and increasing the operational efficiency of the cooperative.