If you have a Baltimore area small business, you might be considering warehousing. If you are, you likely have questions about trucking and distribution in Baltimore. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about trucking and distribution for small business:
Q. We’ve decided to go with a warehousing management system, do they provide trucking and distribution services too?
A. Some warehouse management services do provide trucking and distribution services, some do not. If you identify a WMS that does claim to provide distribution services, look for one that is near piers and marine terminals – especially if you live in the Baltimore area. You will want to find out if they deliver to surrounding states a daily basis. Also, ask about their experience handling sea containers.
Q. What kinds of trucking and distribution in Baltimore are there for a small business owner like me?
If you contract with a public warehouse management service, there is a good chance that they will provide distribution services also. A professional company should offer distribution services with a variety of types of transport, logistics services, route management tools and routine management reports.
Q. Are there many trucking and distribution companies?
A. There are more than 100 companies that identify themselves as either “distribution” companies or “trucking” companies in the Baltimore, MD area.
Q. What is the difference between a “distribution” and a “trucking” company?
A. A “distribution” company delivers products for contracted clients as a part of an inventory management system. A distribution company works as a partner with businesses who have hired them in termed contracts. A “trucking” company is solely a transportation service. The trucking company is not responsible for the inventory it is transporting before or after it is loaded onto or off of its truck.
Q. What should I look for in a trucking and distribution company?
A. A good distribution company will do more than just deliver goods. They will provide sales support and help promote your company’s products. They will do more than just fulfill orders, but will utilize tracking along the way. Their staff will represent both your company and their own with polite and courteous service.
Q. How do I know that contracting distribution services will improve my company’s sales?
A. Without studying supply chain economics in depth, you can find many examples of companies that have used 3rd party logistics and prospered. Boeing reported that they cut their costs nearly 30% in 2013 by expanding their logistical operations. Waste Management Company and Georgia Timber Company also reported increased profits after contracting a 3rd party logistics company.