Which pairing correctly matches the distribution type to its description?

• A. Temporary storage - Fulfillment center; Long-term storage - Distribution center
• B. Temporary storage - Distribution center; Long-term storage - Fulfillment center
• C. Temporary storage - Distribution center; Long-term storage - Fulfillment center
• D. Temporary storage - Fulfillment center; Long-term storage - Distribution center

Answer: (C)

Understanding how storage roles differ across warehousing helps explain why a distribution center is tied to temporary storage while a fulfillment center is tied to longer-term stock. A distribution center is designed for fast throughput: goods arrive, are sorted, and move on to retailers or customers with short dwell times. A fulfillment center is built around continuously supplying customer orders from inventory kept ready for picking, which can involve stock staying on hand longer to meet ongoing demand.

Therefore, temporary storage aligns with a distribution center because items don’t stay there long as they’re routed onward. Long-term storage aligns with a fulfillment center because inventory is maintained to support ongoing order fulfillment. Other pairings would place the functions in ways that don’t match how these hubs typically operate.