Don’t Wait Until July to 3PL Plan for the Holiday Season
Dzmitry Samusevich
VP/COO
Planning ahead for the holiday season is crucial for a business owner. You want to take care of various things- including making sure that you have enough inventory, a solid transportation plan, and adequate storage space.
However, many businesses wait until July to begin planning. Unfortunately, that is too late! If you want to make the most out of the holiday season, you need to start planning now.
This article will discuss the benefits of early 3PL planning, key considerations, and how to get started with 3PL planning to ensure a smooth holiday season for your business.
Benefits of Early 3PL Planning
By starting your 3PL planning early, you can take advantage of several benefits that will make your holiday season smoother and less stressful.
Better Pricing & Availability of 3PL Providers
3PL providers have limited capacity, and their services are in demand during the holiday season. By planning ahead, you increase the chances of securing a 3PL provider that meets your needs and budget. Additionally, you may have room to negotiate better prices.
Increased Flexibility & Room for Customization
The earlier you start planning, the more time you have to adjust your plans to meet your evolving needs. By starting early, you can customize your 3PL plan to your business’s specific needs.
More Time to Address Any Issues That Arise During Planning
The earlier you start the planning process, the more time you have to address any issues that arise. This way, you can avoid last-minute hassles and focus on growing your business.
Key Considerations for 3PL Planning
When it comes to 3PL planning, certain factors are crucial, and you should keep them in mind to make the most out of your plan.
Evaluation of Inventory Needs & Projections
Accurately predicting your inventory needs is key to achieving a successful holiday season. By evaluating your inventory needs early, you can avoid stockouts and overstocking.
Identification of Transportation Needs & Options
A solid transportation plan is a vital component of an efficient 3PL plan. Consider the size of your shipments, the destination, the mode of transportation, and the carrier’s reliability.
Assessment of Warehousing & Fulfillment Needs
The choice of warehouse and fulfillment centers is important because it affects your supply chain efficiency. By assessing your warehousing and fulfillment needs in advance, you can find the best fit for your business.
Evaluation of 3PL Providers
Before choosing a 3PL provider, evaluate their services, terms and conditions, pricing, and reputation. Compare different providers, and choose the one that best aligns with your business needs and budget.
How to Get Started with 3PL Planning?
Getting started with 3PL planning is easier than you think- even if you have never done it before. Follow these steps, and you are on your way to a successful holiday season.
Conduct Research on 3PL Providers & Their Offerings
Use online resources to find 3PL providers that seem promising. Make a list of potential providers, and continue to refine it based on their services and pricing.
Identify Any Potential Issues or Roadblocks Early-On
As you research, pay attention to potential issues- including capacity and pricing. Keep those issues in mind as you plan, and consider alternative options to address them.
Establish Clear Communication With 3PL Providers
Once you have chosen a 3PL provider, ensure you establish clear communication with them. Communication is key to a successful 3PL plan, and you need to ensure that the provider understands your needs.
Meet FDR Warehouse in Stockton, CA
FDR Warehouse is one of the best 3PL providers in Stockton, California, and it offers several services that can meet your business needs.
We are conveniently located close to the Union Pacific and BNSF railways, I-5, Highway 99, and Highway 4, and Port of Oakland and Port of Stockton- and have flexible solutions for all-size businesses.
Here are some of the reasons why FDR Warehouse is an excellent choice for your 3PL planning:
24/7 Customer Service
FDR Warehouse offers 24/7 customer service, which ensures your business gets the support it needs whenever it needs it.
Available Space
FDR Warehouse has ample space and flexible solutions to meet your unique needs. Whether you need long-term or short-term freight storage, cross-docking, or local transportation, FDR Warehouse has you covered.
Advanced Facilities
FDR warehouse has extensive warehouse floor space with safe racks that are under constant surveillance- ensuring the safety of your goods.
Competitive Pricing
FDR Warehouse offers competitive pricing that can help you save money on your 3PL plan.
FDR Warehouse offers 3PL services and solutions that can help you achieve lower supply chain costs. By choosing FDR Warehouse, you get access to a reliable and efficient provider that can help streamline your 3PL plan.
You can call us at (209) 780-5042 or schedule a time on our calendar to learn more about our services.