Warehousing & distribution centers are mission critical in modern supply chains of all sizes. The U.S. Census Bureau’s Economic Census reports there are 18,000+ “warehouse and storage” establishments in the country – a figure forecasted to continue rising amid the backdrop of rapid e-commerce expansion. 

Warehouses are supply chain touchpoints where shipments are stopped and often stored for a time before continuing to the next step. As a function though, “warehousing” is a lot more involved than just setting aside storage space. It employs evidence-based science to facilitate fast, efficient, transparent processes to manage inventory, fulfill orders, cross-dock and transload, and provide value-added services (kitting, labeling, packaging, customization, etc.). 

Distribution, meanwhile, involves preparing and moving goods from a centralized location to various destinations (fulfillment centers, wholesale outlets, retailers, or direct to end customers). 

The efficiency of your Cleveland warehousing & distribution can make a big difference in the success of your whole operation. Ample research demonstrates that consistent application of best practices in modern warehousing & distribution improves efficiency, enhances visibility, reduces costs, increases agility/ability to respond to unexpected disruptions, and bolsters customer ratings. 

But best practices aren’t easy to onboard from scratch, especially if far outside the scope of your regular operations. Supply chains today are far too complex to rely on outdated rules-of-thumb, simplistic ratios, and basic spreadsheets. 

That’s why outsourcing to 3pl and 4pl warehouse providers has become so popular. On Time Delivery & Warehouse already has the dedicated and expertly-designed space, latest technology, trained workers, fast communication platforms, and coordinated operating systems on deck to get you started right away – so you can be on your way.