Flexible Storage Space: Overview and Benefits
In this blog, we give an overview of flexible storage and how to determine if it’s right for your business.
Key Takeaways:
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Flexible space can be a broad category that can encompass everything from space for storage and DIY fulfillment to office space for co-working.
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Flexible storage can help in cases of expanding e-comm needs, overstock, and seasonality.
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However, working with a 3PL can free up business’ resources by outsourcing all of fulfillment.
What is Flexible Storage Space?
Flexible space can be a broad category that can encompass everything from space for storage and DIY fulfillment to office space for co-working.
Businesses can easily select the amount of space that they need and the duration of their stay.
Our Calgary network partner is currently geared towards 3PL services and fulfillment. However, this node also offers some flexible storage space in the area.
Who Is Flexible Storage Beneficial For?
Because of the range of choices it offers in terms of footprint and price, flexible storage space is ideal both for businesses that are starting out and need to scale up, as well as businesses that experience fluctuations during the year.
Expanding E-Commerce Companies
Many e-commerce companies can arrive at a growth stage where order volume is not necessarily large enough to require a full, staffed warehouse, but requires additional space for storage and perhaps some picking and packing.
Overstock and Short-Term Storage Needs
Flexible warehousing space can be used for short-term storage of merchandise, as well as occasionally for things like construction equipment, trucks, and more.
Seasonality
Some businesses may find themselves needing to carry extra inventory during peak season, but not so much that expanding their space permanently is cost-effective, In this case, renting the required space when needed can be a simple and cost-effective solution.
Flexible Storage/Warehouse Space Vs 3PL Fulfillment: Which Do You Need?
In general, flexible warehouse space can benefit businesses with limited needs.
However, if you also need your goods picked, packed, and delivered, it can be more cost-effective, not to mention simpler, to have a 3PL handle all of these things rather than renting the space, hiring the staff, and handling delivery.
Our Quick Quiz
- Is your inventory fast-turn?
a. Yes
b. No - If your inventory is fast-turn, do you have your own team to pick and pack it?
a. No
b. Yes, OR, I don’t need fulfillment - Do you already have a fulfillment provider in place?
a. No
b. Yes, OR, I don’t need fulfillment - Are you looking to expand to multiple locations?
a. Yes
b. No - Do you have the visibility you need into your orders and inventory?
a. No
b. Yes
If you got more A’s than B’s, your organization might benefit from a 3PL or network orchestration partner, rather than a flexible storage solution.
If you’re not sure which option is best for you, get in touch with our team to discuss, or to get a customized quote!
Need Flexible Storage Space in Calgary?
Our 3PL node in Calgary also has space available to meet our customer's flexible storage needs.
Get more details, or get in touch with our team!
