Your project requires 500 cubic yards of concrete to be delivered over 3 days. The supplier can deliver a maximum of 200 cubic yards per day. To ensure timely delivery, what is the minimum lead time you should provide to the supplier?
Correct Answer
B) 3 days
Since you need 500 cubic yards over 3 days and the supplier can deliver maximum 200 cubic yards per day, you need at least 3 days of delivery time (500 ÷ 200 = 2.5 days, rounded up to 3). Therefore, minimum 3 days lead time is required.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option C is correct because the calculation shows you need 500 ÷ 200 = 2.5 days minimum for delivery. Since you cannot have partial days in scheduling, this rounds up to 3 full days. The lead time must equal the delivery time required, so 3 days lead time ensures the supplier can complete delivery within your project timeline without rushing or potential delays.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 1 day
2 days lead time only allows for 400 cubic yards maximum delivery (200 × 2), which is 100 cubic yards short of the required 500 cubic yards.
Option C: 5 days
5 days lead time is excessive and unnecessary since the supplier can complete delivery in 3 days, making this an inefficient use of project scheduling time.
Memory Technique
Remember 'Round UP for lead time' - when calculating minimum time requirements, always round up because you can't have partial delivery days in real construction scheduling.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 19 - Concrete, or project scheduling sections in construction management references
More Business & Finance Questions
A general contractor purchases equipment worth $45,000 with a useful life of 9 years and no salvage value. Using straight-line depreciation, what is the annual depreciation expense?
What is the typical recommended coverage amount for general liability insurance for a small to medium-sized general contracting business?
A contractor estimates startup costs of $75,000 for equipment, $25,000 for initial inventory, $15,000 for insurance premiums, and $10,000 for working capital. They can finance 70% of the total. How much cash do they need?
When establishing professional relationships with architects and engineers, what is the most important factor for a general contractor to consider?
A partnership agreement for a construction company should address all of the following EXCEPT:
A contractor purchases a truck for $60,000. After 5 years, it has accumulated depreciation of $35,000. What is the truck's book value?
A contractor's business plan projects first-year revenue of $500,000 with a 15% net profit margin. If actual revenue is $450,000 with the same profit margin, what is the variance in net profit?
Using the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), construction equipment is typically depreciated over how many years?
A contractor is comparing financing options for equipment purchase. Option A: $80,000 cash purchase. Option B: $20,000 down, $65,000 financed at 6% for 4 years. What is the total cost of Option B?
A contractor purchases equipment using a capital lease with a present value of $120,000. How should this be recorded on the balance sheet?