If you run a business, you need a place where goods can be stored to be sold or distributed at a later date. In other words, you need a warehouse whereby products can be stored safely in advance. Warehousing is essential in any business as it provides regular and smooth storage of goods to prevent a shortage in the future date. But, how do you choose the right warehousing solution?

Here are five questions that should guide you:

1. What Are Your Needs?

There are different types of warehouses that you can select based on your business needs, including private, public, bonded, co-operative, and distribution centers. Before selecting a specific warehousing option, you need to consider two main points the amount of storage space and the type of storage you need. Since the cost of renting different warehouses differs, take your time and choose one that addresses your specific business needs.

2. What is the Nature of Your Products?

Different warehouses offer varied services. If you deal with perishables, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, or animal products, you need a warehousing solution with special features, such as cold storage. If you deal with highly fragile goods, you need a facility that provides special handling services. In other words, determining the right warehouse significantly depends on the type of products you sell.

3. Does it have Appropriate Technology?

Since times have changed, you need to consider an automated warehousing solution. Automating a warehouse plays an essential role in reducing human error, lowering the risk of injury, and processes optimization. As you kook for a warehouse, please check if it has the following smart technologies:

• A warehouse management system
• Automated picking tools
• Internet of Things (IoT) implementation 
• Automated inventory control
• Automated guided vehicles

Integrating these tools and products helps in simplifying day-to-day operations and improves performance and efficiency.

4. Is it Strategically Located?

If you didn't know, your entire supply chain depends on the location of your warehouse. Even when a warehousing solution meets all the above requirements, check if it's strategically located. A good storehouse should be located near your business, customers, and major transportation hubs. Always remember that a poorly located storeroom will adversely affect how quickly manufactured goods are stored and delivered to the customers.

5. What is the Cost?

When choosing warehousing storage, enquire about actual and hidden costs. Please don't go for an expensive storeroom as it will increase your overall production costs. In the United States, the cost of renting a warehouse is estimated at $0.85 per square foot per month. You will also have to part with approximately $0.25 per square foot per month as operating expenses. These prices may vary, but you can use them as a reference point.

Choosing a warehousing solution for your business is a challenging task. If you make a wrong choice, it will adversely affect everything, from delivering orders to customers to managing inventory. So, make your choice wisely. Contact companies like Flint Warehousing to learn more.