What is the 'just-in-time' delivery system in materials management?

• A. A system where supplies are delivered only as needed, minimizing inventory storage
• B. A system that ships weekly regardless of need
• C. A system that stores large inventories in warehouses
• D. A system that eliminates all deliveries

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is delivering supplies exactly when they are needed, not keeping large quantities in storage. Just-in-time means materials arrive to align with production schedules or immediate use, so on-hand inventory is kept to a minimum. This reduces carrying costs, space requirements, and waste, and it can improve cash flow since you’re not tying up funds in stock. But it relies on reliable suppliers, precise scheduling, and short, predictable lead times; any disruption can halt production.

Why this is the best fit: it captures the essence of JIT as demand-driven and inventory-light, aiming to have materials arrive only as they are needed.

Other options describe approaches that don’t fit JIT: shipping on a fixed weekly schedule regardless of actual need, storing large inventories, or eliminating deliveries entirely—none of which reflect the core idea of timing deliveries to match actual usage.