| Why use a public warehouse? |
 |
| Many companies are reluctant
to outsource their distribution operation to a
third party logistics company. Loss of control
and concerns about costs are the main objections
we hear. Public warehousing makes sense for several
reasons. |
|
- The total costs are usually
lower with a public warehouse. Most companies
have a "peak" period where their
need for warehouse space and labor increases
significantly. For most of the year, they
need a smaller amount of space and labor,
but during peak periods, they may need as
much as 50% more resources to handle the additional
volume. Public warehousing allows you to increase
your space and labor on an "as needed"
basis. You pay only for the services you need,
when you need it.
- Your control will actually
increase by using public warehousing. We will
do whatever is necessary to make sure your
products are received and shipped in an efficient
manner. We realize that we are your representatives
to your customer, and we take that responsibility
very seriously. Same day shipments, overtime
deliveries, inventory reports… whatever
you need, when you need them.
- Warehouses are poor investments.
Most companies use some form of "internal
rate of return" (IRR) to determine the
best use of their capital. Warehouses are
huge investments that rarely meet even the
lowest IRR, but companies feel that warehouses
are necessary evils. Public warehouses allow
you to eliminate the need for this large investment,
freeing up scarce resources for more profitable
endeavors.
- Public warehouses are cutting
edge. Because warehousing and distribution
are our business, we invest heavily in training
and technology to insure that you receive
the most value for your distribution dollar.
|
| How much will it cost? |
|
| While based on a simple principle
(how much time will it take to handle your product,
and how much space will it take up and for how
long), determining a rate can be quite complex
depending on the handling and storage requirements
of your product. |
|
| Among the factors that help
us determine your rate are: |
|
- A brief description of what services you
wish us to provide. (over-flow storage, distribution,
cross-docking, packaging, etc.)
- Product dimensions and weights
- Number of sku's (stock-keeping units)
- How product will arrive and be shipped (rail,
truck, container, UPS)
- Inventory turns
- Average inbound and outbound shipment characteristics
(quantity, weight, frequency)
- Is product palletized, slip-sheeted or floor-loaded?
- How you would like the product to be billed
(each, pallet, hundredweight, etc.)
- If you desire delivery service, where do
you need delivery
- Special handling or storage requirements
|
| Once we have a clear understanding
of your needs, we sit down with our management
team and discuss the best way to provide you with
high-value solutions to your unique distribution
needs. |
|
|
If you wish to download a copy of our quotation
form in .pdf format please click
here.
To download the Adobe Acrobat Reader click
here.
|
|
| Commonly Asked Questions |
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| Are you a "bonded"
warehouse? |
|
| Usually the concern is if in
the event of loss to their product, will the warehouse
pay for the loss. The term "bonded warehouse"
refers to goods that are to be "held in bond"
until certain duties or taxes are paid. The most
common type of bonding is for tobacco or alcohol
products and imported goods. |
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| Are my goods insured? |
|
| Lewis Storage Company maintains
warehouseman's legal liability insurance, which
covers any loss due to our negligence. We do not
cover loss for any other reason. If you have any
concerns about whether your goods are properly
covered, you should consult your insurance carrier.
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