Worldwide, more companies are outsourcing part of their supply chain to third-party logistics (3PL) providers. With Queensland’s population growth among the highest in Australia, more companies will require warehousing in Brisbane.

With transportation hubs like the Port of Brisbane and Brisbane International Airport, the city is well-connected to both domestic Australian destinations and international ports. Take advantage of the city’s ever-expanding transport infrastructure by outsourcing your warehousing to Brisbane.

1. Know Where Your Customers Are and Select the Ideal Location

Many times when businesses are looking for warehousing in Brisbane, they are looking at growth opportunities throughout Queensland. The majority of the population may reside around Brisbane, but many businesses are located in regional areas. If your customers are in Cairns or Townsville for example, it will cost you more in domestic transport than it should.

If Brisbane is the right place, picking a provider located near the airport, seaport and major roadways will provide an advantage of lower inbound transportation costs and lower outbound distribution costs. Brisbane is constantly improving its road infrastructure, which will be a benefit to those businesses looking to outsource their warehousing (domestic and offshore) here.

2. Ensure Their Warehouse Management System (WMS) Works For You

In today’s world, you need information on your stock 24/7. Select a provider who uses radio frequency (RF) technology and a WMS that lets you track and trace the location and status of your orders. This increases transparency in your daily business. Ideally, the system should integrate with your other supply chain IT systems to reduce errors and improve accuracy.

3. Communicate, Communicate, Communicate

From the beginning, it is ideal to be open, share information and expectations, and communicate frequently. A lack of communication can cause misunderstandings, which can lead to large issues. During the planning and implementation phase, regularly scheduled, quarterly or even weekly meetings are a good idea. Once the project has been implemented, continue with regular meetings so you can provide feedback. By communicating openly you will be better positioned to build a trust-based long-term relationship.

4. Use Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Performance Management

Use KPI’s to monitor performance and service levels, as well as identify areas for improvement. When considering KPIs, focus on what is important to your customer and what impacts costs. These should be agreed to upfront with a clear performance target for the supplier and included in a service level agreement (SLA). By setting these upfront, it provides clarity which in turn sets the foundation for a long-term successful relationship.

5. Select a Provider That Can Add Value As You Grow

Whether you are starting warehousing in Brisbane, or if you have been selling in the state for years, work with a 3PL provider that can add value to your supply chain. The ideal partner has expertise with your type of goods and customers. They should have a proven track record of being reliable and responsive and provide you with flexibility if you need more space for additional stock keeping units (SKUs) or products.

The 3PL should provide warehousing services, freight forwarding, container cartage, customs brokerage, and domestic distribution. Working with a partner who can grow with your business sets the groundwork for a successful partnership.

For more than a century, BCR has continued to help small, medium and large businesses achieve an optimum logistics solution with warehousing and transportation, including air freight and sea freight services to and from the major ports including Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Fremantle (Perth).

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