6.2.1 How to calculate space required

Example of calculation of the storage space required for a distribution of 10,000 rations of four litres of oil, 15 kg of wheat flour and one kg of iodised salt.

Items                           Net weight (kg)                                             Volume

Oil                                       40,000                                               40 * 1.8 = 72 m3

Wheat flour                       150,000                                             150 * 1.7 = 255 m3

Iodised salt                       10,000                                                10 * 0.8 = 8 m3

Total                              200,000                                                      335 m3

Note: For some items, consider packaging weight and volume for the calculation.

Storage space with a stacking height of two metres will be: 335 / 2 = 167.5 m2

Suitable surface for access and ventilation is: 167.5 / 7 * 3 = 71.8 m2

The logistician will need roughly 240 m2 (167.5m2 + 71.8m2)

Note: Total weight for the distribution is a key factor for transportation, as it will determine the number of trucks or trips needed.