Order policy

Economic Order Quantity Calculator

Estimate an order quantity that balances modeled annual ordering cost and carrying cost for a replenished MRO item.

Ordering inputs

Use stable annual demand and annual carrying cost per stocked unit.

What this calculator does

EOQ applies √(2DS ÷ H), where D is annual demand, S ordering cost, and H annual holding cost per unit. It finds a cost trade-off quantity, not a service guarantee.

When to use it

Use it for recurring, relatively predictable consumables or repair parts with meaningful procurement and carrying costs.

Inputs and formula

Annual demand and holding cost must use the same item and year. Ordering cost should include the internal purchasing effort that changes with order frequency.

Worked example and interpretation

1,200 units of demand, $75 per order, and $12 annual holding cost produce an EOQ of about 122 units per order.

Practical notes and limitations

Minimum order quantities, shelf life, quantity discounts, intermittent demand, and criticality can dominate the mathematical optimum.