Food warehousing is an important part of the complicated world of logistics, especially for businesses that deal with perishable goods. Given the rising demands of consumers and the importance of ensuring food safety, selecting a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics) provider that specializes in handling food becomes critical for companies.
With over 20 food-grade warehouses at Buske Logistics for companies such as PepsiCo and Heartland Foods, this guide details the most important factors to consider when selecting a warehousing provider for food-related products.
Take it from a retailer that shipped products from an infested warehouse. Family Dollar had to pay $42 million for shipping from an infested warehouse that did not have the best practices in place. This can happen to other food manufacturers, too, if they do not select the right provider.
Shipping from a food warehouse goes beyond mere storage. Maintaining the safety, integrity, and quality of food from the supplier to the customer is a very important part of the job.
When choosing a food grade warehouse, there are a number of important factors that need to be taken into account. These warehouses are well-prepared to handle food products with utmost care and attention to safety and quality standards.
At Buske Logistics, this includes maintaining the correct temperature and ensuring cleanliness. We also implement pest control measures and strictly follow food safety regulations set by the FDA and USDA.
In food grade warehousing, following industry standards is critical. Listed below are some important measures for compliance:
Choosing the right food grade 3PL can have a significant impact on your business’s efficiency, compliance, and customer satisfaction. Here are some things to think about:
Your 3PL should have proven experience in handling and storing food products. Look for providers who understand the specific requirements of your products and have a track record of maintaining high standards in food safety.
For example, Buske Logistics serves clients like Dairy Farmers of America and PepsiCo, showcasing our expertise in managing diverse food products.
Ensure your potential 3PL partner complies with all relevant regulations and holds necessary certifications, such as FDA registration, USDA compliance, or third-party audits like AIB (American Institute of Baking) or BRC (British Retail Consortium).
This compliance is crucial, as foodborne illnesses affect 48 million people in the U.S. annually, making rigorous safety measures essential.
It is crucial to use advanced technology for tracking items, keeping track of supplies, and keeping an eye on temperatures. Your 3PL should let you see your supply chain in real-time, so you can keep track of your goods and fix any problems quickly.
The warehouse’s location should align with your distribution needs. Proximity to major transportation hubs, manufacturing sites, or your primary customer base can reduce transportation costs and delivery times.
Buske Logistics’ strategic locations across the U.S. facilitate seamless nationwide distribution.
Your warehousing needs evolve as your business grows. Pick a 3PL that can grow with you by giving you a range of storage options and the ability to adapt to changes in demand caused by seasonal factors or sudden rises in demand.
Discover the reputation of potential 3PL providers by researching customer reviews, case studies, and industry awards. This information can provide valuable insights into their reliability and success. For instance, Buske Logistics is consistently praised in the logistics industry for its exceptional service and dependability.
Though choosing the best food grade 3PL can be difficult, with the correct partner, it becomes a smooth aspect of your business. Here are some pointers to guide your decision:
Having a reliable food-grade warehouse partner is essential in the fast-paced world of food logistics, At Buske Logistics, we pride ourselves on being more than just a 3PL provider. We are your strategic partner, dedicated to ensuring the safety, quality, and efficiency of your food supply chain.
Ready to elevate your food warehousing operations? Contact us today to learn more about how Buske Logistics can provide the expert solutions you need to succeed in the competitive food industry.
At Buske Logistics, we understand the intricacies of food warehousing and the critical role it plays in your supply chain. Here’s why we stand out:
Our decades-long expertise in food grade warehousing has earned the trust of leading brands like Dairy Farmers of America and PepsiCo. Our commitment to food safety and compliance ensures your products are handled with the utmost care. With real-time tracking and monitoring for total supply chain visibility, we use cutting-edge technology for temperature control and inventory management.
Strategically located across the United States, our warehouses are positioned near major transportation hubs to optimize your distribution network efficiently.
We adhere to the highest quality standards and safety guidelines; major industry associations have audited and certified us on a regular basis. Our ambient to refrigerated and frozen storage options are scalable and flexible to match your changing business demands, so we grow with you.