Types Of Warehouses
& Their Uses

Distribution Centres

Distribution centres are designed to store goods across multiple locations for distribution to customers, retailers, or stores. These warehouses are typically used for products that are ready to go to market, streamlining logistics by positioning goods closer to their final destinations.

The primary benefit of a distribution centre lies in its ability to handle large product storage while facilitating quick and efficient delivery. This setup is ideal for avoiding temporary storage solutions and ensuring that goods are available in localised areas. However, they are best suited for storing finished products rather than raw materials or unpackaged goods, making them less ideal for businesses requiring space for manufacturing or assembly.

Tradestars offers space that can help facilitate ecommerce-focused businesses that are seeking efficient distribution solutions.

Fulfilment Centres

Fulfilment centres are tailored for processing online orders and dispatching them for delivery. These spaces are indispensable for ecommerce businesses that operate without a physical storefront, allowing for rapid order fulfilment and reduced delivery times to local areas.

They often include dedicated areas for product packaging and assembly, streamlining operations further. However, the highly optimised processes in fulfilment centres can limit customisation options for packaging and shipping.

You can find ecommerce-friendly warehouse spaces with Tradestars that support fulfilment needs while providing flexibility to adapt to your business’s growth.

Flexible Warehouses

Flexible warehouses offer a dynamic approach to storage, fulfilment, and delivery, adapting to changing business demands. These spaces can be rearranged to prioritise raw material storage, fulfilment processes, or distribution layouts as required. 

The main advantage of flexible warehouses is their adaptability, making them suitable for businesses with fluctuating requirements. However, their non-static nature means careful management is needed to ensure the layout evolves with business needs.

Tradestars offers flexible warehouse options that provide businesses with the tools and space to manage these changes effectively.

Bulk Storage Warehouses

Bulk storage warehouses are ideal for holding large quantities of goods, often stored in their original containers without additional packaging. This type of warehouse allows for easy organisation of large stock levels and efficient inventory management.

The cost-effectiveness of bulk storage warehouses makes them a popular choice for pre-distribution and fulfilment. However, they may require additional transport staff to handle bulk goods and can be limited in terms of space allocation for diverse items.

Tradestars offers storage workspaces and flexible warehouse solutions to support bulk storage needs.

Retail Warehouses

Retail warehouses cater to businesses needing inventory storage for shops and online stores. They can be used for storage, packaging, and fulfilment, making them a versatile option for businesses combining online sales with physical storefronts. Tradestars offer retail warehouses designed to meet the needs of businesses combining retail and ecommerce operations.

These warehouses provide the advantage of offsite product storage and the ability to manage inventory flexibly. However, they can incur additional costs if a shopfront is also maintained and require extra transport time to deliver goods to stores.

Small Warehouses

Small or micro warehouses typically range from 100 square feet upwards, making them ideal for smaller-scale product storage and management. These warehouses are particularly suited to small businesses transitioning from home-based operations or those expanding into new areas.

They allow for the integration of storage, workspace, and distribution under one roof, providing a compact yet efficient solution. However, their limited size requires careful management and may not suit businesses handling bulk storage or large items.

Tradestars’ micro warehouses and small warehouses are tailored to support growing businesses with these specific needs.

Tradestars Offers A Variety Of Warehouses

At Tradestars, we provide a range of warehousing options designed to meet diverse business requirements. From small, adaptable spaces to larger, fully equipped facilities, our private studios combine functionality with flexibility. Our onsite amenities, including meeting rooms, loading zones, and dedicated support teams, ensure that every aspect of your warehousing needs is covered. 

Discover how our solutions can help your business thrive by booking a tour at one of our locations today.

Warehouse Type FAQs

Warehouses play a vital role in the supply chain, and understanding their classifications and functions is essential for businesses of all sizes. Below, we answer some common questions about warehouse types to help you make informed decisions.

How Are Warehouses Classified?

Warehouses are typically classified into public, private, commercial, industrial, and specialised categories: 

• Public warehouses are open to anyone and often operated by logistics companies. 
• Private warehouses offer greater control and are typically leased directly to businesses. 
• Commercial warehouses are used for storing products before sale.
• Industrial warehouses are designed for raw materials used in sectors such as energy and manufacturing. 
• Specialised warehouses cater to specific needs, such as temperature-controlled storage for food or medical supplies. 

Tradestars offers private warehouses, giving businesses the flexibility and control they need to operate efficiently.

What Are The 4 Basic Functions Of A Warehouse?

The four basic functions of a warehouse are: receiving goods, storing them, picking and packaging orders, and distributing or shipping products. These functions form the backbone of the supply chain, ensuring that businesses can manage their inventory effectively and deliver products to customers on time. Tradestars’ warehouses are equipped to support all these functions, offering a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to optimise their operations.