Partnering with a reputable warehousing and distribution service provider offers your business an efficient and organized way to be managed and scale. You will have access to services, features, and expertise that ensure that your goods are managed accurately and delivered to schedule.
What is warehousing?
Warehousing is the process of storing physical goods and inventory, and includes a number of processes related to storing and handling goods. With a reliable warehouse service provider you should be able to have complete peace of mind that your inventory is managed correctly, that your goods are stored safely, and that your goods would be available for distribution when the time arises.
A warehousing team coordinates activities such as receiving, moving, and storing goods. Other activities include stocktake, which was once conducted manually with a pen and paper method, but now it is more likely that your warehouse partner will use an automated warehouse management system.
Modern warehouses have evolved significantly. A lot of the processes are automated, the benefit of which is that you should be able to access information regarding your goods from anywhere in the world. By partnering with a trustworthy warehouse management partner, your stock should be safe and managed with accuracy and care through the strong inventory management system. This will reduce waste, foresee consumer needs and ultimately maximize your profits.
What should you look for in a warehousing provider?
There are a number of questions you should ask yourself when you’re shopping for a warehousing partner. Firstly, what number of SKUs are required? You’ll want to look at the type of storage you need, determine how much space is required, and check the compatibility of your products. Further to that, you’d also want to think carefully about the type of storage the goods need, and if any of them require speciality storage.
Secondly, where is the warehouse located? Ideally, you want to find a partner that has a warehouse, or network of warehouses, close to your customers. That way, when the time comes for delivery, you do not need to factor in many days for shipping.
You also need to ask yourself what services you require. If you’re a smaller e-commerce business you’re likely to only need a pick, pack and ship fulfillment services. You want to choose a warehouse provider that has expertise in the type of services your goods require. If your goods are high value goods then you also need to ensure that adequate security measures are in place.
Finally, it is advisable that you ask any potential warehouse providers exactly what technology and inventory management systems you need. Make sure that you will be able to track inventory and manage order shipments with ease.
Is it easy to find warehousing in Cape Town?
There are many options for warehousing in Cape Town, so it really comes down to what you’re looking for. Arch International offers a national network of warehouse facilities. Not only will you be able to keep your cargo close to your customers, but the cargo is managed through one cargo management system. This offers your business flexibility as well as the opportunity to be remote.
What is distribution?
Distribution is the stage in supply chain management that involves fulfilling orders. Typically it involves removing the goods from a warehouse and distributing them to the customer.
It is worth keeping in mind, the risks can be much higher in the distribution process than in the warehousing process. Depending on the country you are distributing in, factors such as theft and damage can increase significantly. Research and an in-depth understanding of a provider are vital to ensure that your goods are well looked after.
When you look for a distribution partner you will want to find a seamless fulfilment solution, so there are a few things to consider:
- What is the area of distribution that the provider covers?
- Will they deliver within the required timeframes? What case studies do they have to support this claim?
- What are your distribution needs? Full truck loads (FTL), Less than truck loads (LTLs), or parcel delivery.
- Is the provider equipped to handle the distribution requirements?
Where to find a good warehousing and distribution company?
There are a large number of distribution companies to choose from so what it really comes down to is what you need and are looking for. The team at Arch is committed to delivering your goods on time, whilst offering excellent service. We offer the most competitive pricing and give your customers accurate tracking visibility. Using our existing local landside services and order fulfilment processes we deliver your cargo only when you need it, in line with the shipping plan.
For more information, call 021 300 3043 or send an email to info@archinternational.co.za.
