Moving freight containers in and out of local Charlotte, NC warehouses efficiently is crucial for many supply chain and logistics operations. If you are searching for warehouse facilities for container transloading in the Charlotte metro area, being selective upfront helps avoid future headaches. This guide outlines key tips for picking the best warehouse in Charlotte for your container unloading needs.
Assess Your Cargo and Equipment Requirements
First, determine the cargo types you commonly plan to unload, plus how they are packaged (e.g. on pallets, in drums, boxes, bags, etc.), and typical container sizes. Additionally, consider any special equipment needed. Some key questions:
- Refrigerated or non-temp controlled goods? Know the allowable temperature ranges.
- Are there any hazardous materials or compliance restrictions?
- Do you use 20 ft, 40 ft, or 53 ft containers and chassis?
- Do you use pallets, have loose cargo (e.g., pipe, steel), or parcels?
- Will you need any material handling equipment like forklifts, conveyors, or drum/tote movers?
Listing requirements upfront helps identify compliant warehouses that can safely handle your cargo, containers, and equipment needs.
Look for Warehouses Near Major Trucking Routes
When transloading containers, locating warehouse facilities near major trucking arteries or intersections helps reduce drayage costs by minimizing out-of-route miles for drivers. Shorter distances also mean quicker turnaround times during loading and unloading operations.
In the Charlotte area, a warehouse close to routes like I-85, I-77, I-485, Charlotte Highway, or Independence Boulevard (US-74) offers easy highway access for container trucks. Consider a facility within 5-10 miles of these major corridors for effective container dray moves. Being near major seaports or rail terminals is also helpful for intermodal freight arriving to unload.
Evaluate Warehouse Operations & Staff
Some warehouses excel at cargo handling, flexibility, technology, and customer service more than others. Before selecting a warehouse partner for container storage and unloading, observe the operations and staff:
- How smooth and organized are their container loading/unloading procedures?
- How quickly do they prepare required paperwork?
- Are warehouse staff responsive to requests and changes?
- Do they use warehouse management systems (WMS) and technologies for cargo tracking?
- What is employee training like for material handling equipment and safety protocols?
- How clean and secure is the yard, cross-dock, and storage areas?
A tight ship with smart operations helps your intermodal container transloading go smoothly in Charlotte.
Consider Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage
Container unloading comes with the need to temporarily store your cargo. For this, define if you need short-term storage and staging just during transloading, or longer-term warehouse storage:
- Short-term container storage may mean transloading freight directly from a container truck to another truck. Most short-term storage means storing cargo less than 4-5 days.
- Longer-term warehouse storage is normally between 30-180 days, but may be for a longer period.
Clarify expected storage times so the warehouse has enough space available. Short-term storage versus long-term storage have different warehouse space and inventory management requirements.
Compare Cost Structures of Warehouses
Every warehouse facility in Charlotte prices transload services differently. Comparing the cost structure between potential partners is wise by asking:
- Do they charge storage fees daily, weekly, or monthly? Based on pallet positions used or containers stored?
- Are there any minimum fees or commitments required?
- What are their labor fees for overhead cranes, forklifts, or pallet jacks to unload containers?
- Do they have discounts for frequent shippers or high volumes?
- Are there any fees for ancillary services like loading dock appointments, handling documentation, or manipulating cargo?
Understanding the warehouse pricing structure helps your team budget and plan your Charlotte container unloading work ahead of time.
Finding the Best Charlotte Warehouse for Your Needs
Are you looking for the right facility for container unloading in Charlotte, NC? Then find a warehouse using our directory.
Find a trusted partner in Transload Now’s list of warehouse partners!