Unpacking the benefits of co-warehousing

The world of ecommerce logistics is rapidly expanding. In 2022, the U.S. market was valued at $315.82 billion, with an expected annual growth rate of 22.3% until 2030. As such, there's an overwhelming amount of new solutions in the market to help you run your business—from shipping technology to innovative packaging to autonomous robots that pick and pack orders for you. But none of these advancements can be fully utilized without a crucial element: adequate space.

As a small- to medium-sized business (SMB), you need functional warehouse space to efficiently run your operations without breaking the bank, while also allowing for flexibility and growth opportunities.

While many businesses choose to rent a self-storage unit or lease a traditional warehouse from a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, these solutions fall short for several reasons, including:

• They lack important amenities like temperature control, loading docks, and Wi-Fi (self-storage units)
• They boast about their extensive networks and volume discounts but deliver high costs, rigid contracts, and minimum order volume requirements (traditional warehouses)
• They offer little to no space for you to work, create, and run your business from the same space (both options)

Luckily, you have a third option: Co-warehousing. This modern form of warehousing includes renting a unit in a shared warehouse facility designed to support the needs of multiple small businesses that all produce and ship goods. Merging the financial flexibility of self-storage with the logistics capabilities of traditional warehousing, co-warehousing offers more with the amenities and community of a modern office, all in one place.

Keep reading to unpack all the benefits of co-warehousing solutions.

Space that fits like a glove

A waste of space is a waste of money, so you shouldn't pay for space you don't need.

Co-warehousing solutions tend to offer numerous warehouse suites of varying sizes. For example, Saltbox offers suite sizes for each growth stage. You can also select a specific layout to maximize space for shelving, desks, and more. Warehouse suites can include access to loading docks, freight equipment, on-demand labor, conference rooms, enterprise security, and even a photo studio. As your business grows, your space can (and should) grow with you.

Flexibility built for change

No matter the changes your business faces, co-warehousing offers the ability to adapt and expand with your needs.

With fair pricing for the space your business uses, co-warehousing solutions like Saltbox offer flexible contracts, providing the amount of warehouse space you need when you need it. Many co-warehousing facilities include month-to-month memberships, flexibility to move up or down in square footage, and turnkey value without being locked into a long-term lease.

Access to key amenities

From pallet jacks to Wi-Fi, co-warehousing facilities have all the amenities you could need to ruin your business at no additional cost.

Some co-warehousing facilities, like the ones at Saltbox, go above and beyond by offering conference rooms, kitchens, photo studios, and even complimentary trash services. With cozy working conditions (i.e., temperature control and regular cleanings), co-warehousing spaces seamlessly blend essential warehousing needs with upscale amenities.

Additionally, you can customize your space for optimal comfort with the option to rent fixtures and furniture, ensuring your workspace is perfectly tailored to your needs.

Built-in community of like-minded entrepreneurs

Community is a massive benefit to co-warehousing. Full of entrepreneurs facing all the same challenges and triumphs,  shared warehouse spaces foster collaboration, networking, and even opportunities for collaboration.

In a shared warehousing environment like Saltbox, you're not just renting space—you're joining a vibrant community of like-minded individuals passionate about their businesses. Imagine being surrounded by entrepreneurs who understand the highs and lows of running a business, where you can bounce ideas off each other, share resources, and build lasting connections. It's more than just a workspace; it's a supportive ecosystem where you can grow and thrive together.

With networking events, Lunch & Learns, and workshops, the community aspect of co-warehousing adds a whole new dimension to your business journey.

Dedicated staff to assist with logistics services

3PLs are renowned for offering shared services and expert assistance in managing warehousing and distribution needs. Co-warehousing not only provides the essential space and equipment required for all ecommerce businesses but also offers bulk shipping deals, access to part-time labor on demand, and streamlined daily shipping and receiving setups. By sharing the costs of space, labor, and technology, co-warehousing presents a cost-effective solution tailored to the needs of all small business owners.

At Saltbox, we understand the challenges small businesses face when managing warehousing and distribution needs. That's why our co-warehousing solutions go beyond just providing space. Our memberships include access to logistics experts so you can streamline your operations. Need extra help with tasks like packing boxes or kitting bundles? Our on-demand labor services have you covered.

Moreover, our co-warehousing facilities offer a seamless setup for your daily shipping and receiving needs. With shared resources and expert assistance, you can focus on growing your business while we take care of the logistics. 

Saltbox: The co-warehousing space of your dreams

Saltbox offers a cozy and practical spot for small- to medium-sized ecommerce businesses looking for a mix of warehouse and co-working space. Think of our spaces as a blend of a functional warehouse and a trendy co-working area, complete with all the essentials like conference rooms, kitchens, and comfy lounges—perfect for both storing goods and getting work done. 

We take the hassle out of logistics with accessible loading docks and our helpful staff who can manage your shipments and inventory for you. Plus, our flexible logistics services are designed to adapt to your business needs, whether you need help by the hour or prefer a dedicated team to handle your orders. Saltbox is here to make your business operations smoother and help you focus on growing your enterprise. 

Curious to see how Saltbox stacks up against other co-warehousing solutions? Check out the chart below👇 and book a tour at one of our 12 locations today!