There are different types of storage units, and the terms that we hear the most often are warehouse and fulfillment center. Many people believe that these two terms are the same, but is that actually true? Keep on reading to learn if these facilities serve the same purpose, or if they are completely different.
What Is the Purpose of a Warehouse?
The first thing we need to do is understand what are the purposes of these centers and if they are made for the same thing. The warehouse is a term that is most commonly used, and most of us know that in these structures you can keep and store anything that you want.
They are made for both personal and business purposes and you can choose the one that you want to use depending on how many items you want to keep there, and for how long you want to rent these spaces.
More often than not, these units are just rented, and not bought, and they can be found in any area all over the world. When you opt for a warehouse, the only thing that comes as a feature is keeping the object safe, but other than that, you won’t be allotted to other things that could help your brand.
What Is the Purpose of a Fulfillment Center?
Now let’s see what is the purpose of a fulfillment center and if it is different than the other option. In these structures, you can store your goods just like the warehouses, however, when it comes to these centers, here you will also be able to pack and ship out all of the orders that you have for your customers.
The focus here is not the storage, but on sending items to people who ordered them, and unlike the warehouse, the goods here don’t usually spend a lot of time. They are processed at the center, packed, and then shipped.
So, the fulfillment center, also known as a pick and pack warehouse, serves the purpose of storing your goods until they need to be sent, and they are made to help you with your business directly.
Are They the Same?
As you can see, these two units are to a point similar, but they are definitely not the same. The former is made to just keep your goods safe for any amount of time of your choosing. You can rent a warehouse for months, and even years, and you can store any goods of your choosing there. As long as you are paying the rent, you will be able to use the space however you see fit.
On the other hand, the latter is made to keep track of the goods that are placed there, pack them, and ship them to the customers. Usually, orders are processed here, and it can also be seen as a sort of a production place.
Now you know more about these two types of storage units, and the next time you are in need of space for the goods that you offer in your business, you will be able to determine which one is going to be more beneficial for your brand.