Feed procurement glossary
Raw material planning
Definition
Raw material planning is the forecasting of ingredient volumes, sourcing origins, storage days and purchase timing needed to keep a feed operation running. It links formulation, seasonality and storage capacity.
Why it matters
Storage and intake capacity are sized by the raw material plan, not by mill tonnage alone.
When it affects procurement
At plant design and at every purchasing cycle thereafter.
Example
Holding 60 days of locally harvested maize and 20 days of imported soybean meal to match shipment cycles.
Frequently asked questions
How many days of cover should I plan?
It depends on harvest seasonality, import lead times and working capital. Locally harvested grain often justifies more cover than continuously imported material.