Attention all of our local wineries and breweries!
As the digital age continues to grow, as well as the booming culture of craft brew consumption, you may be considering expanding your business nationally or globally. It’s a great way to grow and make your company more lucrative.
But you will need some help if this is a path you want to take.
A warehouse and distributing facility is essential for the path you are about to embark upon. They have the knowledge and the ability to help you achieve your goals.
In today’s article, we’re going to tell you the four things you need to look for in a warehouse and distributing company.
Are They Certified
First thing’s first, you need to look into their certifications. You should be aware that not every warehouse and distribution facility is certified to store alcoholic beverages.
In Maryland, warehousing facilities must obtain specific licensure to store alcohol. You need to ask and research the company you’re interested in if they have this specific license.
That will ensure that you don’t run into legal issues regarding alcohol storage. It will save you a future headache.
Licensures of all types also speak to the quality of the company and the time and effort they put into ensuring their standards.
Cleanliness Standards
Whenever you’re handling a food or beverage product, cleanliness, and sanitization or of the utmost importance. That’s why when you’re choosing a warehouse and distribution facility, you should ask about how they take care of the building.
Consider inquiring about the following before selecting a facility.
- How often do they clean the storage area?
- What do they use to clean the area, and will it affect your product?
- Do they follow any pandemic sanitization guidelines when handling a product?
Cleanliness is essential for more than just the safety and quality of your products. It’s also crucial for your company’s image.
You never want bottles showing up to potential sellers and consumers covered in dust, debris, or germs.
Proper Storage
The last thing you want is your product to be kept in a facility where it’s sitting on the floor, in unideal temperatures, and collecting dust. So, what is proper storage, you may ask?
Well, the simple answer to that is approved food grade storage.
Approved food grade storage means they have to meet particular sanitary standards. That partially goes in hand with the previous statement above. Cleanliness and sanitation are essential for food and beverage warehousing.
Security
And last but certainly not least, you will want to ensure that the warehouse and distribution facility takes measures to prevent theft.
Whether it’s a state-of-the-art security system or a team of guards, the facility you choose needs to ensure the safety of your product.
So, ask questions – take the time to interview them.
Ask them about how they handle cases of theft and burglary. How will they protect your product and investment?
Expand With Overflo
Overflo is a 3PL with ASI/AIB certified food-grade warehousing. We will handle your wine and spirits with the care they need and deserve. And we have over 30 years in the industry, so you can feel at ease knowing your product is in the hands of individuals with experience.
We want to help you expand your business! Contact us today to receive a free rate quote and start your journey to company expansion.