Renting a warehouse space is probably a must for large or semi-large organizations. Some of them even own their warehouse space. This would save them a lot of money in the future. There are a few important things to note before renting a warehouse. These vital things help to keep expectations at bay.
Proximity to Customers
Most customers tend to pick up their goods from the warehouse. It’s best to rent a space that is centrally located. Additionally, the central location would also be advantageous to the business. This is because goods can be transferred from the office to the warehouse with ease. In turn, this saves transportation costs and would be an easy route for customers and suppliers to navigate.
Price Per Square Meter
It’s also vital to ensure that you are only paying for the space you are utilizing. This article by AustinTenantAdvisors.com sheds more light on this. Unfortunately, a survey reported that some warehouse owners are ‘shylocks’ when it comes to billing their clients. Get conversant with the price per square meter in your territory before signing that check.
Budget
It’s important to ask yourself the famous ‘how much are you willing to spend’ question? This is necessary for determining the kind of warehouse you should go for. You also need to figure out how many items you plan to store in the warehouse. The more goods you have, the more space you’ll need. Make sure the cost of the warehouse makes sense for you. In other words, the price should match the value you get from the storage space.
Weather
Climate change is a big deal. You must double-check that warehouse before entering into any agreement. Be sure to check if it dampens during cold weather as this might damage the goods being stored in it. Also, be sure that hot weather won’t harm the contents you intend to store there. You can also avoid such mishaps by extra-wrapping the goods and providing a lift. This lift should be elevated above ground level and should have little or no contact with the wall.
Time Frame
Knowing the exact time frame that you’ll be hiring the space for, might save you a great deal of cash. This is because your lease arrangement would not exceed such a period. This saves you the stress of asking for a refund and all the paperwork that comes with that.
Also, you might get lucky and find a place that allows you to pay in bits or apply the ‘pay as you utilize approach’. Whatever the case may be, it’s best to have a rough idea of how long you’ll be needing the space. This can even get you some discounts!
Additional Expenses
Consider all costs before you decide on a warehouse. For example, find out who pays the electricity bill. Talk through these details before you sign anything. Aso think about any other expenses that might pop up so you’re not caught off guard.
Discuss every running cost with the landlord and make sure you understand the terms. If you want extra protection, bring a legal representative to review the agreement with you.
Special Needs
The type of goods you plan to store matters. Fragile items need special handling and a safe spot where they won’t get damaged. Perishable products must stay in a refrigerator. Other items may need a well-ventilated area. Keep these needs in mind while choosing a warehouse so your goods stay safe and in good condition.
It’s advisable to rent a warehouse that has enough parking space to accommodate all kinds of vehicles. This is because suppliers and customers might be visiting at the same time. The suppliers would probably drive-in with their trucks to offload goods. While customers would be there to pick up their orders. Both parties must be catered for and have easy accessibility to the parking lot.
Owning a warehouse is pretty expensive. Most businesses cannot afford to part with such huge sums. Hence, it is advisable to rent available spaces. Be sure to do a proper background check before making a decision. Also, read all contracts about the lease carefully before signing.
Also, discover What To Know About Business and Investment Properties Before Purchasing One