Finding a warehouse tailored to your individual business's needs is essential for efficiency and productivity. Especially when first starting out, companies can make the mistake of only thinking of the basics like location and cost, but if you want to be successful and think smart, there are a few more things to take into consideration. Here's a simple guide to some of the key factors to think about when choosing a warehouse.

Location. The most obvious point to tick off your list. You'll need to pick somewhere that's easy to get to, both for staff members and for delivery/pick up drivers. To keep transportation costs down and efficiency high, choose a warehouse close to carrier facilities. Finding a place that's close to where your business is based and speeds up the delivery process for your customers keeps everyone happier and will help bring in more profits.

Cost. Another obvious one, but it's surprising how many companies come undone when it comes to choosing expensive warehouses that they can't afford to run. Especially when you're starting out, you don't want to be too stretched, so work out what you can afford and stick to it. Consider all the running costs and choose a warehouse that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Bells and whistles can always be added later (see point 4!)

Storage space. It's no good choosing a perfectly located warehouse if it doesn't have enough room for all your stock. Our first blog post (insert link) features a handy guide to calculating storage space to help you work what size of warehouse to go for.

Lease requirements. Always think ahead- if you expand, will you need to add additional features to your warehouse to meet the needs of your growing company, and if so, will your contract allow them? Do you really need to hire your warehouse for a whole year or could it be shared with another company (e.g. if your business is seasonal)? Thinking of the bigger picture will help you keep costs down and make your commercial property work for you, rather than the other way round.

Job market. It goes without saying that you can't run a productive warehouse without enough staff. If you're starting out, do a little research into the local area and talk to job centres and recruitment agencies to find out whether you'll be likely to fill all your vacancies.

At Pall Mall, we have quality warehouses throughout the UK to help your business thrive, and our friendly team are always happy to answer your questions or arrange viewings to help you get a clear picture of how our commercial properties can work for you. For more information on our fantastic warehouse rental opportunities, complete the simple enquiry form on our website or call us on 020 8986 7221 .

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