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Economic order quantity

Economic order quantity minimises the relevant combined ordering and holding cost under the model’s assumptions. For annual demand D, cost per order Co and annual holding cost per unit Ch, EOQ = square root of (2DCo/Ch). The basic model assumes stable demand and costs, no stockouts and instantaneous replenishment. Purchase price does not affect the optimum when it is constant, but quantity discounts require comparing total costs at feasible order sizes.

Worked example

D = 10,000 units, Co = $50 and Ch = $2 per unit per year. EOQ = √(2 × 10,000 × 50 ÷ 2) ≈ 707 units.

Common mistake

EOQ answers how much to order, not when to order. Reorder timing depends on demand, lead time and buffer assumptions.

Where it appears in your exams

QualificationExamRelationshipPeriod
ACCA MA Direct September 2026–June 2027
FIA FMA Direct September 2026–June 2027