What does the built date represent in the planning horizon?

The built date is a critical component in supply chain planning, particularly within the context of the planning horizon. It represents the date when the supply is completed at the sourcing site, marking the transition from manufacturing to the next phase of the supply chain. This date is pivotal for maintaining an efficient workflow, as it informs subsequent processes like shipping and inventory management.

In a planning scenario, knowing when the supply is completed enables planners to accurately schedule transportation, distribution, and stock replenishment activities. It establishes a clear timeline for when products are available for delivery or transfer to other stages within the supply chain. Understanding the built date is essential for aligning production schedules with demand forecasts, minimizing delays, and ensuring that commitments to customers can be met effectively.

The other options do not correctly capture the essence of the built date. For instance, while the shipping date focuses on the logistics aspect of supply movement, and the starting date refers to the initiation of production, neither aligns with the completion aspect of the supply process that the built date signifies. The need-by date indicates when the goods should arrive but does not pertain to the manufacturing completion at the sourcing site, thus further clarifying the specific role of the built date in the planning horizon.