With advances in modern technology, remote work is now the norm. Virtually anyone can work from anywhere that has a solid internet connection. Small vendors can stay connected and react to events in real-time. “Face-to-face” meetings with people across the country are possible via Skype. However, when it comes to getting your physical products into your customers’ hands, there’s nothing virtual about it. It takes vehicles, fuel, and manpower. That’s why the physical location of your fulfillment warehouse is something you should consider very carefully.
Geographical Location of Your Fulfillment Warehouse Can Impact Your Business
As experts in warehousing and order fulfillment, we wanted to share four reasons why the geographical location of your fulfillment warehouse matters.
- You save on transportation costs: Transporting your goods can be expensive. There are fuel costs, tariffs, tolls, insurance, vehicle maintenance, and more. Some of those costs are beyond your control, but there are a few costs you can reduce. For example, you can save on fuel costs and vehicle wear and tear by ensuring your warehouse is located as close to your customers as possible. If you’re near a coastal area, it may make more sense to have a warehouse near you instead of spending the money to ship your product to a warehouse in the middle of the country.
- You reduce your carbon footprint: In today’s economy, having sustainable business practices is no longer a “nice to have” but a “must-have.” If you set up your fulfillment warehouse near customers, then you’ll slash the number of greenhouse gases and pollution your business creates from transportation emissions, which will help the Earth and your reputation at the same time.
- You increase delivery speed (and customer satisfaction): How long does it take for your products to get to your customers? Are they satisfied with the amount of time they must wait? Amazon is changing customers’ delivery times with guaranteed 2-day, 1-day, or even the same day. You want to ensure your fulfillment warehouse is located as close to your end customer as possible to ensure the fastest delivery times. It’ll not only help increase efficiency, but it’ll also keep your customers satisfied and coming back to order more.
- You control costs: Like any other property or piece of real estate, prices of fulfillment warehouses vary based on location, so be sure to look for the best deal. And don’t assume the best deal automatically means a lower price. Look at the services you’re getting as part of the price. Maybe the lowest price doesn’t come with added services that a slightly more expensive warehouse may provide. It’s best to shop around, check for package deals, and work to build long-term relationships with your warehouse partners.
It may sound cliché, but there’s only one thing that matters when it comes to ordering fulfillment: location, location, location. If you’re looking to cut costs, increase efficiencies, and deliver a better customer experience, then put your energy into finding a trusted fulfillment warehouse partner in the ideal location.
If you’re in the process of seeking a partner for your warehouse and fulfillment needs, then speak to Taylored Fulfillment Services. We’re a fully integrated third-party logistics provider specializing in wholesale, retail, and direct-to-consumer unit fulfillment. Established in 1992 and headquartered in Iselin, New Jersey, we operate 1.5 million square feet of warehouse and distribution space strategically located near the nation’s busiest ports, including Los Angeles, Long Beach, and New York.