In the present work the numerical analysis of an autothermal chemical looping reforming (CLR) packed-bed reactor for hydrogen production is presented. The reactor works with Ni-based oxygen carriers, methane is used as fuel and continuous cyclic operations are simulated. The proposed process poses a number of challenges, namely the choice of the time-length of oxidation and reduction phases, the start-up temperature and the cycle design. This paper theoretically quantifies these challenges through numerical simulations. A 1D numerical reactor model, validated by comparison with experimental data available in literature, was developed. Results for the cyclic process are presented, and the effects on the feasibility of the process of a variation in operating conditions are discussed. It is concluded that an appropriate choice of both the initial temperature and the length of oxidation and reduction phases is essential prerequisite for the process feasibility and performances. (C) 2015 The Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.