FAQs

eCommerce Warehousing

• What is ecommerce fulfillment?
  Ecommerce fulfillment refers to the dedicated section of your logistics network in the UK that manages the receipt, storage, and distribution of bulk goods. This involves strategically organizing stock units (SKUs) within a warehouse, accurately assembling orders, and efficiently delivering these to your customers. Key operations in this process include stocking items on the shelves of an ecommerce fulfillment center, ensuring a streamlined path from warehouse to customer.
• What is an ecommerce warehouse?
  Ecommerce warehousing involves the storage of goods that are exclusively sold online within the UK, focusing particularly on the unique demands of the online retail environment. Ecommerce warehouse management encompasses the oversight of all operations within such facilities. This includes supervising the workforce essential to the efficient functioning of the warehouse, ensuring that every process from inventory management to order fulfilment is streamlined and effective.

General

• What are the functions of warehousing?
  Storage: Warehouses provide secure storage spaces for goods, ensuring protection against environmental damage and wastage. This includes both planned storage for regular demand and extended storage for seasonal peaks or promotional periods.
  Protection: Warehouses safeguard goods from theft, damage, and spoilage by implementing security measures, using protective treatments, and providing suitable storage conditions like cold storage for perishable items.
  Logistics: Efficient movement of goods within the warehouse is facilitated through well-coordinated inbound and outbound logistics, ensuring smooth transitions from receiving to storage, and eventually to shipping.
  Financing: Warehousing can aid in financing by using stored goods as collateral for loans. This financial function is supported by issuing warehouse-keeper’s warrants, which serve as proof of goods deposited and can be used to secure funding.
  Price Stabilization: By managing inventory levels, warehouses help stabilize market prices by storing excess goods during periods of low demand and releasing them when demand increases, thus helping to maintain market equilibrium.
  Information Management: Advanced information systems in warehouses track and manage data regarding stock movements, storage, and dispatch. This ensures accurate inventory management and supports strategic decision-making.
• What is the warehouse management system?
  A Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a specialized software designed to optimise the routine operations within a warehouse. It manages the journey of goods and materials from the time they enter a distribution or fulfillment center in the UK to the point they are dispatched.

  This system streamlines tasks ranging from inventory tracking to order fulfillment, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in handling warehouse processes.

• How much does it cost to rent a warehouse space?
  Large Warehouse Space: Covering 2,500 to 10,000+ square feet, starting from £2,875 per month excluding VAT.
  Medium Warehouse Space: Ranging from 1,000 to 2,500 square feet, available from £1,280 per month excluding VAT.
  Small Warehouse Space: Spanning 300 to 1,000 square feet, beginning at £425 per month excluding VAT.
  Mini Warehouse Space: Encompassing 100 to 300 square feet, priced from £170 per month excluding VAT.
  Micro Storage Units: Approximately 35 square feet, starting at £99 per month excluding VAT.
  Managed Storage Services: Includes comprehensive management of receipt, handling, and dispatch of all bulk storage needs, priced from £0.30 per square foot per week excluding VAT.
• How does the waitlist work?
  First let us know what sort of space you require. If we don't have the space available you will be added to a waiting list. Once you're on the list, we'll keep you informed about the availability that matches your needs. If your space requirements change, just let us know so we can adjust our records.
• How do I pay for my membership?
  We offer a straightforward and convenient payment process. You can make payments via direct debit, which is the most common method, ensuring that fees are automatically paid on time each month. Alternatively, we accept payments through bank transfers. When you sign up for a membership, our team will provide you with all the necessary details and assist you in setting up your preferred payment method. If you have any specific payment preferences or need assistance, feel free to contact our on site team.
• Do I require insurance?
  Yes, it is required for members to have insurance when renting space at Warehouse Works. This insurance should cover your stored goods and any potential liabilities. It's important to ensure that your policy is adequate to cover the value of your items and any specific risks associated with your stored goods or business activities. We recommend consulting with an insurance provider to get a policy that meets your specific needs. If you need guidance on the type and extent of insurance required, our team can provide you with general advice and recommendations.
• What is “co-warehousing”?
  Co-warehousing, as offered by Warehouse Works, is a modern warehousing solution where different businesses share a secure space within a larger common warehouse space. This concept is similar to that of a serviced office but tailored for warehousing needs. It provides flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and a collaborative environment for businesses that require storage and logistics facilities but may not need or be able to afford a full-scale, dedicated warehouse. Key features of co-warehousing include:

  1. Shared Space: Businesses rent space within a larger warehouse, sharing the overall area and facilities. This can range from small, dedicated sections to larger, customisable areas.
  2. Flexibility: Co-warehousing offers flexible terms, allowing businesses to scale their space up or down based on their changing needs, without the long-term commitments usually associated with traditional warehousing.
  3. Amenities and Services: Access to shared amenities like loading doors, HGV yard, equipment (like forklifts and pallet trucks), and even logistical support services.
  4. Cost-Effectiveness: By sharing resources and paying just for net space, businesses can reduce their operational costs, making it an economical option especially for small and medium-sized enterprises.
  5. Networking and Collaboration: Co-warehousing provides an opportunity for businesses to network, collaborate, and potentially form beneficial partnerships with others.

  This model is ideal for e-commerce businesses, small manufacturers, distributors, or any business that requires instant warehouse space but wants to avoid the high costs and inflexibility of traditional warehousing.

Popular Questions

• How big is a small warehouse?
  A small warehouse generally ranges in size from 2,500 to over 10,000 square feet. This size category is particularly suitable for businesses with modest storage needs, such as those dealing with smaller product volumes or operating in sectors with lesser space requirements.

  Small warehouses provide efficient storage solutions, particularly for compact items, making them an excellent choice for businesses looking to optimise their inventory management without requiring extensive space.

• What does order fulfilled mean?
  When an order status shows "in fulfillment," it indicates that the order has been processed and is currently being prepared for dispatch. In the UK, once the order fulfillment process is complete, the order has been successfully shipped and received by the customer, marking the conclusion of the transaction.
• What is inventory management?
  Inventory management involves overseeing the storage, replenishment, and distribution of goods and services in the UK. This crucial business practice encompasses the coordination of all related supplies and operational processes. A key element of inventory management is controlling the movement of raw materials from acquisition through to their transformation into finished products, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness throughout the supply chain.
• Are there meeting rooms available to hire?
  Yes, at Warehouse Works, we offer meeting rooms or hire. These rooms are designed to provide a professional and comfortable environment for your business meetings, presentations, or workshops. They are equipped with essential amenities such as Wi-Fi, tea, coffee and video conferencing facilities. You can hire these meeting rooms as per your requirement, whether it's for an hour, a half-day, or a full day. To book a meeting room or to get more details about the sizes, facilities, and pricing, please contact our customer service team.
• Do I need to pay for access to the forklifts and pallet trucks?
  We offer flexible options for using forklifts and lifting equipment to accommodate different business needs:

  1. Forklifts with Driver on Hire: If you don't have your own certified forklift operators or prefer not to use your own staff, we offer the service of hiring a forklift along with a qualified driver. This service is available on an hourly basis. It's an excellent option for businesses that require occasional forklift use without the need for full-time certified operators. *Subject to availability and booking*
  2. Personal Use of Forklifts: For those who have the necessary insurance and competency certificates, personal use of forklifts is permitted, subject to booking. This is ideal for businesses with trained personnel who need regular access to a forklift within designated areas.
  3. Pallet Trucks and manual handling equipment: We provide shared facilities including, pallet/pump trucks, and trolleys. Before using any mechanical and manual handling equipment, you must provide evidence of training. Speak with our staff to ensure all necessary paperwork is in place.

  It is the responsibility of businesses based in the warehouse to ensure their staff are suitably trained and insured to use these facilities. Communal equipment should be returned to the load bay area after use, and aisles kept clear. Forklift trucks must not be used down the warehouse aisles without prior authorisation; only pallet/pump trucks are allowed for this purpose. If you have any questions about using these services, please speak with our customer service team. We're here to assist you in finding the right logistics solutions for your business needs.
• Can I change the size of my space?
  Yes, at Warehouse Works, you have the flexibility to change the size of your rented space. We understand that business needs can fluctuate, so we offer scalable solutions to accommodate changes in your storage and operational requirements. Whether you need to upscale due to business growth or downscale to adjust to market conditions, our team is here to assist you in finding a space that suits your current needs. To make a change to your space, simply contact our customer service team. They will discuss your new requirements, provide available options, and guide you through the process of adjusting your rental agreement. Keep in mind that changes are subject to the availability of suitable spaces at the time of your request.
• Can I customise my space?
  Yes, you have the option to customise your space to suit your specific business needs. We understand that different businesses have unique requirements, and we strive to provide a flexible environment where you can tailor your area for optimal use. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Extent of Customisation: The level of customisation you can undertake might depend on the nature of the changes and the terms of your agreement with us. Some modifications may be more straightforward, like adding shelving and moving in furniture and equipment, while others that involve bolting elements to the floor or walls might need prior approval.
  2. Approval Process: For significant alterations, you may need to submit a proposal detailing the intended changes. Our team will review these plans to ensure they comply.
  3. Restoration Agreement: Typically, there might be a condition that the space should be returned to its original state at the end of your term. This aspect will be clarified in your rental agreement.
  4. Costs and Implementation: Any costs associated with the customisation are usually borne by the occupier. It's also important to plan these changes in a way that minimises disruption to your operations and those of others.

  We recommend discussing your customisation plans with our team. They can provide guidance on what is permissible and assist you in making the most out of your space at Warehouse Works.
• Do I need to be present to receive my inbound deliveries?
  Generally, it's expected that you should be on-site to receive your deliveries. However, our warehouse team can assist in receiving and handling your deliveries, this service is chargeable and must be arranged in advance. For Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), booking an HGV slot in the goods yard is mandatory to ensure timely access and prevent bottlenecks. This also ensures the availability of a forklift if needed. You can book HGV slots via our portal. If you require a forklift driver, Rapido FM offers this service on a time charge basis, which is also bookable through the portal. Please ensure all bookings are made with at least 48 hours' notice. For Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs), if you occupy warehouse space, you can use the first roller door and the side door to the manual handling area without the need for booking. Please note that the roller door will close automatically after 60 seconds for security purposes. This system ensures efficient, safe, and organised operations for all warehouse users.
• What are the typical hours?
  • Monday to Friday: The warehouse is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. These hours are ideal for most standard business operations, including receiving and dispatching goods.
  • Weekends and Public Holidays: The warehouse is usually closed on weekends and public holidays. This schedule is in line with standard business practices and allows for maintenance and security protocols to be effectively implemented.

  It's important to note that these hours might vary slightly depending on specific operational requirements or during certain times of the year. We recommend contacting our team for the most current information. For businesses that require access outside of these typical hours, special arrangements can sometimes be made. Please speak with our team to discuss any unique requirements you may have.
• Can I rent both office & warehouse space?
  Yes, at Warehouse Works, you have the option to rent both office and warehouse space. This combination is ideal for businesses that require a physical space for storage, distribution, or manufacturing, along with a dedicated office area for administrative tasks, meetings, or other business operations. Renting both types of spaces together offers several advantages:

  1. Convenience: Having both your office and warehouse in one location streamlines operations, making it easier to manage your business activities.
  2. Efficiency: This setup saves time and reduces the need for travel between separate office and warehouse locations.
  3. Cohesion: It allows for better communication and coordination between your administrative and operational teams.
  4. Customisation: Both spaces can be tailored to your specific business needs, ensuring that your office and warehouse align seamlessly with your operational requirements.

  To explore available options or to discuss how we can accommodate your specific needs for office and warehouse space, please contact our customer service team. We're here to help you find the perfect solution for your business at Warehouse Works.