How to evaluate a storage warehouse before you sign
Ten checks to make on a site visit, from the gate to the stock register.
Ved Warehouse · Dewas
A storage contract can run for years. The time to judge a warehouse is before you sign, standing in it. These are the ten things we suggest every buyer checks on a site visit, whether they choose us or not.
01. Walk the gate first
Ask how vehicles and visitors are logged, how many gates there are, and who staffs them at night.
02. Watch a load being weighed
A weighbridge on site, with every inbound and outbound weight recorded, is the start of a clean stock record.
03. Look up
Clear height decides how high goods can be stacked. Check it at the sides of a hall as well as the centre.
04. Check the floor and the roof
Look for a sound floor, a dry roof and drainage around the halls.
05. Ask about verification
How often is stock physically counted, and how are differences reported to you?
06. See the records
Ask to see how stock is recorded on paper, in software, or both.
07. Understand grain care
For commodities, ask how moisture is checked on arrival and how often fumigation happens.
08. Ask about handling
What equipment is on site, and can labour be arranged for loading and unloading?
09. Talk about the model
Dedicated or shared space, minimum volume and minimum duration should be clear before pricing.
10. Meet the people
You will deal with the warehouse manager every week. Meet them on the visit.
To judge a warehouse, walk it.