Which date in planning indicates when the supply should be docked for receipt?

The dock date is the specific date in supply chain planning that indicates when the supply should arrive at the receiving dock for receipt. This date is crucial for inventory management and ensures that products are available when needed, aligning supply with demand. The dock date facilitates effective planning and coordination within the supply chain, allowing for the necessary preparations for unloading and storing the incoming goods.

Understanding the dock date is essential for organizations as it directly impacts overall operational efficiency. It helps in scheduling labor, managing storage space, and maintaining flow in the supply chain. Consequently, recognizing the importance of this date aids companies in reducing delays, optimizing inventory levels, and ensuring timely fulfillment of customer orders.

The other options, while related, do not pertain directly to the actual date when goods are expected to arrive at the dock. The start date refers to the beginning of a planning period, the ship date signifies when the goods are dispatched from the supplier, and the built date relates to when the goods are manufactured. Each of these dates plays a role in the overall logistics and planning processes, but the dock date specifically addresses the timing of receipt.