How Central Kitchen Delivery Works

A central kitchen (commissary) mechanizes and standardizes food for multiple canteens via purchasing, processing, and delivery. How does delivery work? CHINENG details the flow.

Delivery process

1. Order upload: stores send orders online or via data devices into HQ systems; if offline, fax printed requests for manual external orders.

2. HQ receive: open store orders for the selected outlet and list uploaded requisitions.

3. Allocate: pull the store requisition and adjust pick quantities as needed.

4. Outbound audit: print pick lists, pick from warehouse, return to finance for audit; system creates sales and receivables on confirm.

5. Store receive: count against the outbound sheet; transit loss is usually booked as commissary logistics shrinkage with reasons.

Operating model

Central kitchens are standardized, digital, industrial foodservice production—ideal for large restaurants, hotpot, hotels, and chains.

CHINENG customizes hot, cold, or mixed delivery lines for lower cost and higher efficiency.