In order to answer the question in the title of today’s blog article, let’s first review what cross-docking is. Cross-docking is the practice within shipping and logistics of loading and unloading products from one mode of transportation to another mode without using any warehousing in between. So, for example, products might be unloaded from a cargo plane and put directly onto trucks which move the products to retailers. Or products might come straight off of a truck and onto a container ship.
Warehousing serves many purposes. Not only can products be stored for some amount of time between legs in shipping, but often companies take advantage of other services offered within the warehousing to repackage or even rebrand items.
So, companies that use cross-docking are ones that have no need for any kind of change in packaging or branding and also have a relatively simple shipping route or schedule. There is certainly a cost associated with warehousing, but along with that cost comes a major convenience.
The further one’s goods have to travel, and the more complex the shipping and logistics needs, the more likely it is that the product will need warehousing somewhere along the line.
If you have questions about cross-docking and are wondering whether or not you need it in British Columbia, talk to 18 Wheels Logistics at (604) 439-8938 in Vancouver, and we can go over with you all of your options. Every company’s shipping and logistics needs are different and third-party logistics (3PL) businesses tailor a shipping program to the specific needs of each client.
For over 30 years, 18 Wheels Logistics has strived to be the most customer-centric trucking, warehousing, and logistics company around. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, 18 Wheels relies on experience and integrity to make customers happy and remain on the cutting edge of shipping and logistics management.
If you have any questions about this article or you would like to talk to us about your shipping needs, please call us at (604) 439-8938.
