Warehouse space is an important decision for any business. Not only do you need the space to store your inventory and products, but you also need a warehouse that is big enough and has the proper amenities to accommodate your specific needs. So how do you go about choosing the right warehouse for your business? Here are some tips.
The Location
Another important factor to consider when choosing a warehouse is its location. You want to find a warehouse that is close to your office or storefront so that you can save on transportation costs and time. Additionally, it’s important to find a warehouse that is located in a safe area with good access roads – this will help minimize delivery delays and ensure that your products arrive undamaged. So when checking out warehouses for lease, make sure to consider the location first and foremost. The location will also dictate the price of the warehouse.
The Size
The size of the warehouse is also an important factor to consider. You want to make sure that the warehouse you choose is big enough to accommodate your needs but not too big that it’s wasting space and costing you more money than necessary. It’s also important to consider the height of the warehouse – if you have tall shelves or need to store large items, you’ll need a warehouse with high ceilings. When considering the size of the warehouse, be sure to take into account your future needs as well – you don’t want to outgrow your space too quickly and have to move again. Also, be sure to ask about mezzanine space if you think you might need it in the future.
The Price
Of course, price is always a factor when choosing any type of commercial real estate. You want to find a balance between getting a good deal and making sure that the warehouse meets all of your needs. It’s important to remember that the price is not just the monthly rent – it also includes utilities, taxes, insurance, and any other fees associated with the property. When considering the price, be sure to get a comprehensive breakdown of all the costs so that you can compare apples to apples.
* Utilities: This will include the cost of electricity, gas, water, and sewer.
* Taxes: The property taxes on the warehouse will be passed on to you as the tenant.
* Insurance: You’ll need to ensure the contents of your warehouse in case of damage or theft.
* Other Fees: There may be other fees associated with the property, such as CAM charges (common area maintenance), which are typically passed on to the tenant.
The Amenities
When choosing a warehouse, it’s also important to consider the amenities that are included. Some warehouses come with office space, loading docks, and other features that can be very helpful for your business. Other amenities like security systems, sprinklers, and climate control can also be important depending on your needs. Be sure to consider what amenities are included in the lease and whether or not they are worth the additional cost.
* Security Systems: This is the most important amenity for a warehouse. You want to make sure that your inventory is safe and secure, so be sure to look for a warehouse that has a security system in place.
* Sprinklers: This is another important safety feature, especially if you are storing flammable materials in your warehouse.
* Climate Control: If you are storing temperature-sensitive products, then climate control is a must.
* Office Space: If you need a place to do paperwork or meet with clients, then office space in the warehouse can be very convenient.
* Loading Docks: If you plan on receiving shipments at your warehouse, then loading docks are a necessity.
The Lease Terms
Be sure to carefully consider the lease terms before signing any paperwork. You want to make sure that the lease is fair and includes terms that are favorable for your business. For example, you may want to consider a longer lease if the rent is lower or if there are other perks included. Additionally, be sure to read over the fine print carefully and have a lawyer look at the lease before you sign it. For example, you’ll want to make sure that you are not responsible for any repairs or maintenance on the property.
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a warehouse to rent. Be sure to carefully consider the size, price, amenities, and lease terms before making your decision. Also, be sure to get a comprehensive breakdown of all the costs associated with the property so that you can compare apples to apples. And finally, don’t forget to have a lawyer look over the lease before you sign it.
