News & Press

September 24, 2024

Brown Distribution Centers

Written By: Mark Hugh, VP of Domestic Operations at Brown Distribution Centers

When port strikes threaten to disrupt supply chains, local warehouses near port cities can offer crucial solutions for importers and exporters. Local warehouses act as storage hubs that provide essential insights into logistics, especially during a high-stress situation like a port strike. Finding a local warehouse can help keep your supply chain moving.

5 Key Advantages to Utilizing a Local Port Warehouse:

1. Strategic Buffer Zone: Warehouses allow businesses to:
   • Move goods out of the port area before strikes begin
   • Store incoming shipments during disputes
   • Gradually release inventory to maintain the supply
2. Cross-Docking and Transloading: These services help bypass port bottlenecks by:
   • Transferring goods from containers to outbound trucks or railcars
   • Consolidating or breaking down shipments for efficient distribution
3. Value-Added Services: Many warehouses offer:
   • Customs clearance assistance
   • Quality control and inspection
   • Repackaging and labeling
   • Inventory management
4. Alternative Transportation Coordination: Warehouses can:
   • Arrange alternative shipping methods
     • Railcar movement—Keep mills/machines running
   • Coordinate last-mile delivery
   • Facilitate intermodal transfers
5. Data and Visibility: Advanced warehouse systems provide real-time inventory and shipment status information, which is crucial for decision-making during strikes.

By leveraging these local port facilities, importers and exporters can maintain flexibility and resilience in their supply chains, even in the face of port disruptions. As businesses recognize their value, local port warehouses become essential partners in planning supply chain continuity.