International Warehousing and Global Supply Chain Management

Introduction 

Efficient warehouse management is crucial for businesses to optimize inventory storage and handling. This not only enhances the customer experience through cost savings and prompt deliveries but also improves the scalability and flexibility of the supply chain on a global scale.

In 2023, the global supply chain management industry’s worth surged to a record-breaking $21.95 billion. This proves the growing significance of efficient logistics and warehouse operations in the modern business landscape. This is why, in today’s landscape, knowing the various nuances of international warehousing has become key to managing a global business.

In this post, we will explore how effective warehouse management is integral to succeeding on the global front.

Read on!

 

Strategies for Optimal Warehouse Management

A well-strategized supply chain management ensures a product reaches the customer from a warehouse as soon as possible. 

Below are some strategies you can follow to improve the efficiency of your supply chain:

• Maintain the Right Inventory

When it comes to international warehousing, understanding localized demands ensures your business never runs out of products, and they are indefinitely stored. The idea is to know the customer demand from each geographical location and maintain an inventory to meet those demands.

• Choose the Right Warehouse

Strategic placement of warehouses is important when it comes to international supply chain management. To choose the right warehouse location, it’s important to align it with the specific demands of your business.

If your clientele is mainly in South Asia, choosing a warehouse in North America defeats the purpose. No matter how well you manage a warehouse, you cannot have your products delivered quickly enough across such a long distance. So choose a warehouse closer to the market you serve.

 

Perks of International Warehousing

Businesses in 2023 have truly gone global. And to facilitate their global expansion, many companies are exploring the perks of international warehousing.

Here are some of the key advantages:

Quick Fulfillment

International warehousing allows for quicker fulfillment of international orders, cutting out the middlemen, optimizing cross-border logistics, and cutting down the cost of operation.

For example, if an American brand has a wide Indian client base, it is more convenient for them to have their commodities warehoused in Europe, where they can reach both European and Asian consumers quicker than they could from their local warehouses in America.

Lower Shipping Costs

Having access to an international warehouse considerably cuts down on shipping costs. And it’s not just about reducing shipping costs but also enhancing cost-efficiency in various ways.

International warehousing often enables businesses to take advantage of bulk shipping, which eventually leads to significant savings on transportation expenses. 

Better Return Service

As shipping costs and shipping time are both reduced, it becomes convenient to allow easy returns to customers.

In fact, e-commerce businesses face an 18.1% return rate. And almost 60% of online shoppers examine a business’s return policy before buying from them. This highlights why having customer-friendly return policies is key to not only attracting new customers but also keeping the old ones around.

Minimized Supply Chain Risks

Maintaining a network of warehouses across various locations can significantly reduce the vulnerability of your business to risks inherent in the global supply chain landscape.

 

This way, if there is a disruption in transportation, changes in international shipping restrictions, or even a pandemic, you can try to keep your inflow and outflow stable with your products spread across the globe. This will make customers look at your brand as a reliable shopping partner in the long run.

Final Thoughts

As the global supply chain management industry continues to grow, it’s crucial for businesses to understand the importance of efficient logistics and warehouse operations.

In this regard, signing up with a logistics partner can be a strategic move. If you are looking for a logistics partner who can make this process easier for you, reach out to Shipyaari. We offer fully integrated logistics solutions that can help you navigate the complex landscape of warehousing and supply chain management with ease.