Quotes: Epic Opportunities for Awesome Growth
Quotes in Warehousing
Warehouses can provide quotes in many different ways. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common methods used today. While this won’t cover every type of quote, it will give you a solid starting point as you search for a warehouse. Typically, quotes fall into four main categories: storage, pick and pack, value-added services, and transportation. In some cases, a quote may include more than one category. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Storage
Warehouses charge for storing goods. They may use different pricing methods. For example, some charge by the pallet. This can cost more if the pallets cannot be stacked. Others charge by the square foot or cubic foot. Most warehouses separate storage fees from other charges. Therefore, it’s important to know exactly what you need. That way, the quote reflects accurate and useful information.
Pick and Pack Quotes
Warehouses usually quote pick and pack services in two ways. First, they may create a per-order charge. This includes picking, packing, and storage from the date of receipt, and an administration fee. They apply this charge to each outbound order or total it monthly and bill the client.
Second, some warehouses use a simpler method. They charge for storage when they receive the goods. Then, at the time of shipping, they add the pick-and-pack fee and the administration charge. This method makes it easier to track costs and manage billing.
Value-Added Services
Value-added services (VAS) vary from one warehouse to another. For example, our warehouse treats pick and pack as a VAS because not all clients need it. In other facilities, this service may be standard. Additional services—such as kitting, repackaging, or re-labeling—also fall under VAS. These tasks require extra time and labor, so they come with added charges.
To avoid surprises, ask the warehouse which services they consider value-added. This helps you understand what’s included in your quote and what may cost extra.
Transportation
We don’t operate trucks, so we don’t handle direct transportation. However, we still play a role in the process. For instance, we support truck lines by offering transloading, also known as cross-docking. This service helps keep goods moving when trucks miss appointments or need to reschedule.
Instead of letting goods sit idle, we receive them and prepare them for the next leg of the journey. This keeps the supply chain flowing and reduces delays. Even without trucks, we stay involved in transportation by helping carriers stay on schedule.
