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Warehousing is; very simply, just a place to store goods.

Warehousing vs Distribution Centre?

Warehousing is; very simply, just a place to store goods. This could be somewhere as basic as a backyard shed or dedicated racking space in a warehouse facility. Many people say ‘warehousing’ when they actually mean ‘distribution centre.’ That’s unfortunate because a distribution centre is much more than a warehouse. It has a place to store goods but also functions as the fulfilment arm of the operation, getting goods to the end customer.

When a business outgrows basic forms of warehousing and distribution, it’s time to look at a formal distribution centre. Distribution centres often offer manned security, access to warehousing and fulfilment experts, order fulfilment processes, stock controls and customs processing with a built-in delivery network. Tapping into established resources can help reduce overheads for fledgling businesses. In fact, most businesses have no need for their own warehouses or dedicated fulfilment centres except in extreme cases. The benefits rarely outweigh the high cost.

Benefits of Shared Warehousing & Distribution

  • Cost Reduction– The most obvious benefit is the ‘pay as you use’ nature of shared resources. It keeps your overheads low and ensures you don’t invest in more infrastructure than you need.
  • Expertise in Fulfilment– No one can be good at everything, so instead of hiring internally, tap into fulfilment expertise by taking on a distribution centre partner. You’ll get the experienced advice you need without increasing salary commitments.
  • Built-in Distribution Network– A place to store your goods is only half the battle. You’ll also need a way to get those goods to your customers and a supply chain without an established shipping network can be costly.
  • Enhanced Security– Shrinkage is a real problem. By using an established distribution centre, you can reduce these losses through robust entry/exit controls and surveillance.
  • Seasonality– Not every business is 365 days a year, so why pay for more than you need. Just another way fulfilment partners help you stay flexible.
  • Technology– With all costs shared, fulfilment providers can invest in the best systems on the market to ensure you have comprehensive oversight of your goods at all times.

4S Distribution Warehousing & Fulfilment

We’re proud to offer superior warehousing and fulfilment services that include the following benefits:

  • 20,000 ft warehouse near the M1
  • 24/7 manned security
  • Short or long term contracts
  • Order fulfilment & full stock visibility
  • Racked and block stacking available
  • Pay as you go rates
  • Dedicated and trained team
  • Full stock control with labelling & documentation provided
  • Pick and packing
  • Entry and exit controls
  • Seasonal staffing available
  • Flexible quantities
  • Dedicated and shared space available
  • Built-in distribution network

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You won’t be locked into long term and cumbersome contracts that bolt-on extra services you don’t need. At any point, you can scale up to meet increasing requirements, so our team will work to initially deliver your base requirements for fast onboarding.

Together with our expert partners; Palletforce, we can offer unparalleled UK, European and International distribution connections from day one. Add to that, our investment in a comprehensive technology interface, so you can keep track of your goods at all times. You’re in good hands.