When you’re a company that sells products in bulk to other businesses, you have a lot riding on each order. Consider this comparison of business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) orders…
With B2C orders, a late, improperly packaged, or otherwise unsatisfactory order is a problem, but it typically only involves one customer and a handful of products at most. In contrast, a single B2B order can involve hundreds of products valued at tens of thousands of dollars, and issues with the order can have a major financial and reputational impact, such as inventory shortages, loss of sales, customer dissatisfaction, and costly chargebacks and penalties from retailers and distributors.
This is why it’s critical for product suppliers to have a seamless B2B fulfillment process through every point in the supply chain. Whether you’re working with a B2B fulfillment services provider or handling these operations in-house, it’s important that you review your practices and processes with a fine-toothed comb to ensure maximum efficiency and quality assurance.
Review this B2B Fulfillment Services guide to learn how you can streamline your process, getting your products to your customers on time, in the right quantity, and at the best cost for your company. We’ll start by covering the basics and then going into specific strategies you can leverage to optimize your B2B fulfillment efforts.
B2B fulfillment is the process of one business processing and sending products to other businesses instead of directly to consumers. B2B activities usually involve storing, picking, packaging, processing, and shipping products to manufacturers, retailers, and distributors. In order to execute B2B fulfillment, you must also be prepared to receive in large quantities from multiple suppliers.
Common users of B2B fulfillment services include retailers, manufacturers, and distributors. Businesses may choose to work with a third-party logistics (3PL) company that offers B2B fulfillment services or they may prefer to handle these operations in-house.
B2B fulfillment logistics can be especially complex, particularly because they involve:
In contrast, B2C fulfillment orders (or similarly direct-to-consumer (D2C) fulfillment) tends to include significantly lower product volumes per order, more straightforward shipping logistics, and individual, non-contractual purchases.
With so many moving pieces involved in B2B fulfillment, process is more important than ever. You can have superior products and endless value to the businesses you serve, but these value propositions will quickly become overshadowed by a poor fulfillment experience.
By ensuring you have a buttoned-up supply chain strategy, you can keep your customers happy while maximizing efficiency for your company, which can lead to potential cost savings and business growth. To create a more streamlined B2B fulfillment process, you will need:
Companies fulfilling B2B orders require the flexibility of sizable warehouses that can easily handle large volumes of inventory moving in and out of their facilities. Look for a warehousing solution that has:
With B2B fulfillment, you’re likely going to need solutions that extend beyond simple over the road (OTR) freight transportation. Make sure your team has access to a wide range of solutions, including easy access to shipment via air, ocean, and rail along with export capabilities for international orders. When choosing a warehouse or a 3PL, look for locations that are conveniently located near major transportation hubs of all different types.
The most innovative and efficient companies are those that leverage advanced technology for their B2B fulfillment services. The larger your operations are, the more challenging it can be to maintain precision and accuracy within your storage, inventory, and shipment logistics. Fortunately, technology can simplify the process of monitoring storage space conditions, tracking inventory, managing warehouse workflows, automating orders, and much more. Consider how solutions like sensor-equipped hardware, warehouse management systems (WMSs), and electronic data interchanges (EDI) can help provide your team with real-time data, performance analytics, and automation that can maximize efficiency for your team. If you work with a 3PL, see what technology they offer and ask about their ability to integrate with any systems you’re already using.
Whether you build your team in-house or you work with a 3PL, make sure those who are leading our operations understand the intricacies of the industry or industries you’re working in. You may be shipping products that are highly regulated, such as food and beverage products, pharmaceuticals, or other chemical products, and you’ll want to ensure your storage facilities and supply chain logistics are set up to keep your company within legal compliance. See to it that your in-house or B2B fulfillment services provider has proper training, experience, auditing, and certifications to maintain the highest level of quality assurance.
When you partner with 3PL with a strong reputation in B2B fulfillment services, you tap into an all-in-one solution that can save your company time and hassle. Any 3PL company you work should offer a diverse range of support services to address all your B2B fulfillment needs — from warehousing to transloading and cross-docking to reverse logistics and more. Your partner should also have an unwavering dedication to process, meaning they are committed to the highest level of efficiency and accuracy within their supply chain logistics.
Keep these strategies in mind as you determine the best approach for your company’s B2B fulfillment operations. You should consider your fulfillment needs today as well 5, 10 or even 15 years down the road, and choose the strategies that will help your business succeed.
Porter Logistics is a 3PL and B2B fulfillment service provider that simplifies the process of getting your products to your business customers. We’re a Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), food grade, and HAZMAT-certified company that offers a variety of services that could support your B2B fulfillment infrastructure.Learn more about what Porter Logistics can do for your business.
At Porter Logistics, we know that our people are at the heart of our success. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce Sam Foshee, our Head of Human Resources, who is shaping our People and Talent function to support our rapid growth. Get to know Sam and her vision for building a dynamic and inclusive workplace.
Throughout her decade in recruitment and human resources, Sam has distinguished herself by building high-performing teams at fast-growing startups. Her expertise in talent strategy, recruitment, and organizational development makes her the perfect leader to drive Porter Logistics’ continued expansion.
“Building a People and Talent function from scratch has been my career dream,” Sam shares enthusiastically. “Porter’s rapid growth trajectory and potential to become a nationwide household name made this opportunity irresistible.”
Sam’s leadership philosophy centers on three key values: transparency, communication, and integrity. She creates an environment where employees feel empowered by ensuring clear company goals, fostering open dialogue, and maintaining consistent, ethical leadership. This approach builds trust, encourages collaboration, and supports both personal and organizational growth.
When not shaping HR strategy, Sam pursues her passion as a certified hot power yoga instructor. Her dream dinner companion would be Patanjali, the sage behind the Yoga Sutras. “The philosophical foundation of yoga extends far beyond physical practice,” she explains. “Its principles of discipline, mindfulness, and balance deeply influence my approach to both life and leadership.”
Sam lives by the motto: “Run toward what energizes you, not just what you’re good at.” This mindset has guided her career choices and encourages growth beyond comfort zones. As she leads Porter Logistics’ HR initiatives, her enthusiasm for developing people and culture promises to create an engaging, dynamic workplace. The future looks bright with Sam at the helm.
[Atlanta, GA] – [April 2, 2025] – Porter Logistics, a leading provider of temperature-controlled logistics solutions, is proud to announce its membership with the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA). This strategic partnership underscores Porter Logistics’ commitment to advancing best practices, fostering industry collaboration, and enhancing the efficiency of the global cold chain.
By joining GCCA, Porter Logistics gains access to a vast network of industry leaders, resources, and cutting-edge insights that will enable the company to further refine its services and maintain the highest standards in cold chain management. This membership aligns with Porter Logistics’ mission to provide reliable, sustainable, and innovative solutions for temperature-sensitive transportation and storage needs.
“As a company dedicated to excellence in cold chain logistics, we are thrilled to join the Global Cold Chain Alliance,” said John Foshee, President of Porter Logistics. “This partnership allows us to stay at the forefront of industry advancements, collaborate with like-minded organizations, and continue delivering exceptional service to our clients.”
The GCCA is a premier organization representing all sectors of the global cold chain, including refrigerated warehousing, transportation, construction, and supply chain logistics. Its mission is to grow the industry and support its members through education, networking, and advocacy.
Porter Logistics’ membership in GCCA further solidifies its position as a trusted leader in the temperature-controlled logistics sector. The company looks forward to leveraging the alliance’s resources to enhance operational efficiencies, expand its service offerings, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the global cold chain.
Learn more about Porter Logistics’ cold storage warehousing.
At Porter Logistics, we recognize the powerful role transportation plays in shaping local economies. We were recently inspired by an interview with Marlon Taylor, President of New York & Atlantic (NYA) Railway. Marlon’s insights on the significance of short-line railroads highlight not only how these railroads connect communities but also how they contribute resilience, innovation, and sustainability to transportation. We couldn’t agree more with his perspective on the essential role railroads, particularly short lines like NYA, play in moving goods, fostering environmental sustainability, and driving economic development.
At Porter Logistics, we’ve seen firsthand how crucial transportation infrastructure is to local economies, which is why we’re so committed to providing rail-served warehousing solutions. Our 750,000-square-foot facility in Atlanta is connected directly to the CSX line via Omnitrax, featuring 10 boxcar doors and outside unloading capabilities for center beam cars. This seamless integration of rail and truck transportation enables us to efficiently handle bulk commodities and offer reliable, cost-effective logistics solutions that reduce congestion and enhance efficiency, much like the short lines Marlon Taylor champions.
Marlon’s leadership style, emphasizing adaptability, resilience, and communication, resonates deeply with us. In an ever-changing logistics landscape, adaptability is key. As Marlon rightly noted, the ability to pivot when unforeseen challenges arise—and the importance of leading with empathy—are what distinguish successful operations from those that falter. At Porter Logistics, we too focus on fostering a culture of collaboration, empowering our teams to navigate complex logistics challenges and ensure seamless operations for our customers.
We are particularly aligned with Marlon’s views on sustainability and the importance of addressing environmental goals. Just as NYA works to incorporate New York State’s climate initiatives into its operations, we at Porter Logistics also prioritize environmentally-conscious solutions. Rail, especially short-line rail, plays a pivotal role in reducing emissions and alleviating congestion in urban areas. Our rail-served warehouse is a prime example of how rail can contribute to the overall efficiency of transportation systems while reducing environmental impact.
Porter Logistics also shares Marlon’s emphasis on capital improvements, such as upgrading infrastructure and modernizing equipment. Our investment in rail-served warehousing, including enhanced transloading and cross-docking capabilities, reflects our commitment to continuously improving our services and infrastructure to meet industry demands. By providing direct rail access to our warehouse in Atlanta, we help businesses streamline their supply chains and reduce bottlenecks in the transportation network. This forward-thinking approach is essential for staying ahead of market needs and maintaining a competitive edge.
Short-line railroads like Omnitrax play a critical role in supporting local economies. They provide tailored, customer-focused services that help reduce congestion and improve the flow of goods in the broader supply chain, particularly in urban areas where transportation challenges can slow down or complicate other forms of logistics. At Porter Logistics, we recognize the invaluable contribution of rail to both local economies and the global supply chain. Our rail-served facility in Atlanta supports the efficient movement of bulk commodities while minimizing congestion, aligning with the broader vision Marlon shares for advancing freight rail’s benefits to the economy.
Lastly, Marlon’s commitment to employee safety, especially during the winter and holiday seasons, is a critical reminder that safety is always a top priority. At Porter Logistics, we share this commitment and maintain high safety standards across all our operations. We understand that the wellbeing of our employees is the foundation of any successful business, and we prioritize their safety at every level of our operations.
The future of transportation lies in collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. As we look toward the future, Porter Logistics is excited about the continued growth of the rail industry—especially short-line rail—and how it will contribute to building more resilient, sustainable, and economically vibrant communities. Our rail-served warehouse in Atlanta is just one example of how we’re leveraging the power of rail to enhance logistics efficiency and support sustainable growth.
Stay tuned as we continue to explore new opportunities for growth and collaboration in the logistics industry, and as Porter Logistics continues to shape the future of transportation.
For many businesses, finding the best commercial warehouse in Atlanta isn’t just a nice-to-have, it’s a must. Efficient storage, distribution, and logistics can help streamline and scale your operations. Whether you need space for excess inventory, order fulfillment, or specialized storage, the right facility can reduce costs and enhance your bottom line.
With Atlanta’s strong logistics infrastructure and growing economy, businesses have multiple options when it comes to commercial warehousing. However, not all warehouses offer the same level of service, security, and flexibility. The last thing you want is to finalize your contract and discover that the services you’re investing in are far from comprehensive.
Before choosing a commercial storage facility, here are key factors to consider to help ensure that you’re maximizing your success.
Atlanta is a major transportation and distribution hub, which makes it an ideal location for commercial storage. Warehouses near major highways such as I-285, I-85, and I-75 provide easy access to freight corridors, reducing transit times and improving supply chain efficiency. Proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the Port of Savannah can also be an advantage for businesses that rely on national or international shipping.
When you’re building a list of potential Atlanta commercial warehouses, it can be worthwhile to consider traffic patterns, ease of access for trucks, and whether the facility is located near key distribution routes. A well-placed warehouse can help lower transportation costs and improve turnaround times for deliveries.
Commercial warehouses in Atlanta vary in size, and selecting the right facility depends on business needs. Some companies require large-scale storage for bulk goods, while others need smaller, more flexible spaces for seasonal inventory or specialized equipment.
A well-designed warehouse should accommodate efficient workflow and easy movement of goods. Open floor plans, high ceilings for vertical storage, and dock doors enable streamlined loading and unloading. Porter Logistic’s Atlanta facility spans over 700,000 square feet including dry, temperature-controlled, and cold storage warehousing.
Not all businesses require standard warehouse storage. Some industries, such as retail, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and automotive, have unique storage needs that require specialized handling.
Many warehouses in Atlanta offer climate-controlled storage for temperature-sensitive goods, as well as racked storage for maximizing space. Businesses that handle large shipments may benefit from bulk storage options, while those managing smaller products may require shelving or bin storage.
If your business has specialized requirements, such as hazardous material storage or fulfillment services, be sure to confirm that the warehouse can meet those needs.
Certifications demonstrate a commitment to safety, security, and operational excellence, making them a key factor in choosing a reliable storage provider. Porter Logistics maintains several certifications to uphold high standards in warehousing and logistics. Our certifications include:
It goes without saying: security is an essential factor in commercial warehousing. A well-secured facility should have surveillance cameras, controlled access, and on-site security personnel to protect inventory from theft and damage. Some 3PL logistics companies also require restricted access to certain areas of the facility to protect high-value or sensitive products.
Many businesses require warehouse storage on a flexible basis—whether for short-term overflow storage or long-term operations. Choosing a warehouse that offers month-to-month, short-term, or long-term leasing options can provide the flexibility needed to scale operations as demand fluctuates.
Seasonal businesses, e-commerce retailers, and companies expanding their product lines may benefit from storage solutions that can be adjusted as inventory levels change. Warehouses that offer flexible contract terms and adjustable space allow businesses to expand or downsize without the constraints of long-term leases.
Commercial warehouse costs in Atlanta depend on factors such as contract length, commodity type, value added services (e.g., kitting, repacking), storage volume, and more. When comparing facilities, be sure to inquire about the total cost of renting a warehouse, including base rent, utility costs, maintenance fees, and any additional charges for security or specialized storage.
As with anything, you should review contract terms carefully. Some warehouses require long-term commitments, while others offer more flexible options. You can avoid unexpected costs by familiarizing yourself with the contract terms, renewal options, and any potential penalties for early termination.
Porter Logistics offers commercial storage solutions designed for businesses that need secure, flexible, and scalable warehouse space. Our Atlanta 3PL facility provides:
We provide businesses with reliable commercial storage that adapts to their needs. Whether you need warehouse space for seasonal inventory, ongoing distribution, or specialized storage, our Atlanta facility offers a strategic location and flexible options to support business growth.
If your business is looking for commercial storage in Atlanta, Porter Logistics offers customized solutions to fit your needs. For a quote tailored to your specific needs, fill out our online form or give us a call at 404-574-4641.
News Provided By
Porter Logistics
March 18th, 07:00 EST
Porter Logistics Expands into 3PL Cold Chain Logistics with 145,000+ Square Feet of Advanced Cold Storage for the Food, Pharmaceutical, and Chemical Industries
Atlanta, GA – March 18th, 2025 – Porter Logistics, a leading logistics and 3pl warehousing company in Atlanta, is proud to announce its expansion into cold chain logistics, offering specialized cold storage solutions for some of the leading manufacturers, distributors, and brands in the world. With deep expertise in food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and chemicals – expansion into the cold chain is the next step in Porter’s growth. Said CEO Robert Crump, “Expanding into the cold chain is the next logical step in Porter’s mission to be the #1 provider of logistics solutions to the Food, Chemical, and Pharmaceutical industries. Our existing clients have been asking for this capability and Porter will be able to serve multiple modes of service from our integrated Atlanta campus.”
As part of this expansion, Porter Logistics is growing on its home turf – adding 145,000 additional square feet of cold storage warehousing at 605 Selig Drive, Atlanta, GA, 30336 where it already has an existing 270,000 square foot 3PL warehouse. This brings Porter’s total presence to 750,000 square feet on Selig Drive off of Atlanta’s Fulton Industrial corridor.
Said President John Foshee: “With our expansion into the cold chain, Porter Logistics has become a one-stop shop for its existing and future clients. On our Atlanta campus – we offer a full range of temperatures: Ambient, Heated, Climate Controlled, Refrigerated and Frozen all in close proximity to one another. Add in our rail-served capabilities along with GMP Food Grade & HAZMAT certifications and we feel very confident in our ability to service the most complex 3PL requirements.”
Porter Logistics’ new cold storage facilities are designed to accommodate a wide range of temperatures, including refrigerated offerings between 35F and 40F as well as freezer storage as low as -20°F. Utilizing state-of-the-art refrigeration technology and an expert team to provide cold storage solutions for frozen food products, ingredients, raw materials, and nutritive pharmaceuticals. This new offering is designed to meet the stringent requirements of the Food, Chemical, & Pharmaceutical industries and help businesses ensure product quality and safety while maintaining a seamless supply chain.
The company offers a full suite of 3PL services, including:
With a flexible approach to operations, Porter Logistics can support businesses of all sizes, from smaller privately held companies to large Fortune 100 distribution needs, making it an ideal partner for food distributors and manufacturers. Additionally, Porter Logistics’ prime location in Atlanta gives businesses direct access to major transportation routes, helping to reduce transit times and costs while improving delivery speed.
Porter Logistics’ cold storage warehouse is built with a strong focus on safety and compliance. The company maintains high standards of hygiene and sanitation, performing regular temperature checks and compliance audits to guarantee that frozen foods are stored under optimal conditions. These procedures ensure that all products meet safety standards and maintain their integrity throughout the cold chain process, from storage to delivery.
About Porter Logistics
Porter Logistics is a leading Atlanta 3PL offering comprehensive third-party logistics services to brands, manufacturers, retailers, and direct sellers across many industries including Consumer Products, Food & Beverage, HAZMAT Chemical, Pharmaceutical, & Bulk Commodity industries.
With Porter Logistics, brands are able to achieve economies of scale, reduce spend, and bring omnichannel operations under one roof to drive revenue growth and reduce complexity in their supply chain.
Contact: John Foshee for PR Inquiries & Sales
Phone: 404-574-4641
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.porter-logistics.com
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Porter Logistics Press Release
At Porter Logistics, our commitment to excellence is driven by a strong foundation of core values—integrity, teamwork, customer focus, innovation, and accountability. These principles shape everything we do, from warehouse operations to customer service. We believe that our values start from our leadership team which is why we are thrilled to welcome Mark Swanson, our Senior Operations Manager, to the Porter Logistics team.
With 14 years of experience in logistics, Mark has seen firsthand how a company’s values impact daily operations. Having worked with industry giants like Amazon, Home Depot, and BSG, he brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to our team. But what makes working at Porter Logistics special for him? “My favorite part of working here is seeing our core values in action—on the floor and in meetings. It’s not just talk; we truly live by these values every day.”
Mark leads with a people-first approach, ensuring his team feels empowered and supported. His main goal as a manager is simple yet impactful. By fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork, Mark ensures that both employees and customers experience the best of what Porter Logistics has to offer.
When he’s not leading operations, Mark is a family man, Marvel fan, and outdoor enthusiast. His perfect day is hiking with my family. Mark also has a love for Latino cuisine, enjoys a wide variety of music, and stays busy with home remodeling projects. As a die-hard Georgia Bulldogs fan, you’ll often find him cheering on his team.
When asked about his biggest inspirations, Mark points to his family and coworkers. This speaks volumes about his leadership style—one that is deeply rooted in teamwork and mutual respect.
At Porter Logistics, we are proud to have leaders like Mark Swanson who truly embody our core values. His dedication to empowering his team, delivering exceptional service, and fostering a strong company culture makes him an integral part of our success.
Welcome to the team, Mark! We’re excited for what’s ahead.
In the business world, how you’re getting your product to your customers can be just as important as what you’re selling. Whether you’re distributing household products, food and beverage items, pharmaceuticals, or some other type of product, you need to make sure that these goods are being transported, stored, and fulfilled as safely and efficiently as possible, as this impacts everything from product quality to customer satisfaction to your bottom line.
But as companies grow, the logistics for these processes become increasingly complex, which begs the question: What is the most effective supply chain solution for your business? Does it make sense to invest in growing and improving your internal processes and resources, or should you enlist the help of a third-party logistics (3PL) company?
Every business is different, so you will need to take a look at your company’s unique needs and circumstances to determine which type of solution is right for you. To make the evaluation process easier, here’s a quick overview of how in-house logistics and third-party logistics compare.
3PL stands for third-party logistics and refers to outsourced supply chain services, which can include services such as:
A 3PL company will often provide warehousing locations, a diverse range of services and equipment, and even logistical planning and management in order to remove the burden from the business and deliver a more streamlined process.
With a 3PL provider handling supply chain logistics, a business can divert their attention to other important business needs such as product development, marketing, sales, customer support, and so on.
In contrast, businesses that choose in-house logistics maintain complete ownership and responsibility of the supply chain process, which means they own or lease their own storage facilities, provide their own equipment, hire and train their own staff, package and ship their own orders, and more.
When determining whether 3PL services or in-house logistics are right for your business, there are numerous factors to consider. Here is a 3PL vs. in-house logistics side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision.
In-House
Brands and businesses that manage their own logistics have a higher level of control over their processes, from where their warehouses are located to the staff they hire to their shipping timelines and more. This may be desirable to businesses that prefer to be in charge in every step of the process.
3PL
Brands and businesses that work with 3PL companies can provide some direction, but actual day-to-day execution of their warehousing and fulfillment will ultimately be in the hands of the contracted logistics partner. For businesses that work with a 3PL, they should be sure to do their research and choose a reputable provider they can trust.
In-house
When a business brings their warehousing and distribution logistics in-house, they will need to have one or more experts on their team who specializes in these areas so they can plan effectively and implement processes that are needed for establishing facilities and processes that meet regulatory compliance. Most brands are good at selling, producing their product, and advertising their product. High level logistics is usually not a core competency and the larger a business gets the more complex their operational requirements.
The in-house logistics director’s responsibilities may include overseeing land or lease procurement, equipping facilities with the proper racks and shelving, purchasing or leasing equipment, hiring and managing staff, managing warehouse operations and operational expenses (like supplies, utilities, taxes, and insurance), and more.
3PL
Instead of finding and hiring their own in-house experts, a business can find a third-party company that specializes in the areas of warehousing and fulfillment logistics within the business’ specific industry. This should be a partner that has certifications and affiliations with various governmental and third-party safety oversight agencies as needed for compliance purposes.
An example might be a provider of food-grade-certified and HAZMAT-certified warehouses that is prepared to assist with all types of import and export logistics, from ocean ports to rail terminals. With a 3PL, all the responsibilities that come with warehousing and distribution logistics lie with the third-party company, which may allow the customer to dedicate more time and focus on other areas of their business.
In-House
With an in-house solution, logistical efficiency is only as good as the business’ existing resources. If demand suddenly goes up, the business may need to find and secure additional warehouse space (which is typically a long-term investment). If demand suddenly goes down, the business may be stuck maintaining space they are not using. Heavy overhead, from real estate to employees can be a burden on a business that has a dip in sales or is quickly growing.
3PL
Third-party logistics providers already have numerous warehouse spaces available, which clients can tap into as needed. This can make it easier for businesses to scale up or down when their inventory and output are impacted by factors like seasonality or rapid business growth (which may cause inventory overflow issues). The model is transactional, meaning that cost scales linearly up and down with demand.
3PL companies also tend to have a diverse range of logistical services available and deep experience in the sector. Good 3PL warehouses can easily supplement any new needs that arise, whether it is a different type of product storage (such as cold storage) or added layer of logistical support such as freight brokerage.
In-House
The brand or business will need to invest in logistics software and tools for managing warehouse inventory and fulfilling orders and is responsible for keeping their systems up-to-date. One benefit of in-house logistics is that the business will have the freedom to choose their preferred software system.
3PL
The provider may offer their own proprietary technology or have established tech partners that clients can leverage. If you have a specific logistics platform you would like to use but you want to work with a 3PL provider, make sure to choose a company that can integrate with your desired system.
So, as you consider how to proceed with your company’s warehousing and distribution strategy, be sure to think about how much time and resources you want to dedicate internally to planning and managing those logistics. In making your decision between 3PL vs. in-house logistics, you should think about your business’ short-term and long-term goals and any variables that may cause fluctuation in your product volume. Some businesses like the appeal of owning their own warehouse properties and having control over every aspect of the process whereas others are happy to pass over the responsibilities to an external party that already has expertise in these types of logistics and flexibility to adjust capacity as needed.
Porter Logistics is a provider of omnichannel 3PL services that integrates and simplifies the supply chain process for manufacturers, retailers, brands, and direct sellers across a wide range of industries.
With our dedication to impeccable service and seamless process, we offer fully-staffed, food-grade-certified and HAZMAT-certified 3PL warehouses that come with a full scope of logistical services (including warehousing and distribution, order fulfillment, transportation brokerage services, and more). We serve as the supply chain experts so you and your team can focus on what you do best — producing and sourcing your products and serving your customers.
We also offer our own API-enabled technology that automates order and inventory management workflows, and our system has pre-built integrations with more than 50 shopping cards and marketplaces.
Learn more about how Porter Logistics can help your team.
Having an effective cold storage warehouse is non-negotiable for food manufacturers, retailers, and food-service companies that distribute frozen food items. When frozen foods are not stored at the correct temperatures and environments, food products become compromised, which can result in:
…And in the worst case scenarios:
Additionally, inefficiencies within the cold chain distribution process, from transportation logistics to inventory management and data analytics, can result in lost time and money for a food distributor.
This is why it’s critical to choose a reliable cold storage warehouse and logistics company. This should be a frozen food warehouse that not only meets the necessary temperature and capacity thresholds, but also addresses a variety of other business needs that make your frozen food distribution logistics flow as seamlessly as possible.
To assist you in the selection process, here are six considerations to keep in mind when choosing a cold storage and logistics company.
The first and most obvious criteria should be whether the warehouse has temperature-controlled space that meets safety standards for storing frozen foods. Make sure the warehouse has dedicated freezer storage areas that are kept at 0° F or below (with even lower temperature ranges preferred) and that they are monitored around the clock with up-to-date sensors and equipment.
Additionally, when evaluating the size of the frozen food storage space, make sure there is room to grow. Your warehousing solution should meet your cold storage capacity needs both today and over the long term, should you ever expand your inventory of frozen food items.
When choosing a freezer warehouse, consider diversity of space and function. Your freezer storage rooms should include both racked and bulk storage space, and it’s best if your facility is equipped to resolve a variety of food storage needs for your business. A mixed-use food storage warehouse will have a combination of options, such as:
With a more consolidated food distribution warehousing strategy, you can cut down on transportation costs and streamline some of your business operations, which could be helpful for your bottom line.
Your cold storage warehouse should be located in a centralized, easy-to-reach location that simplifies transportation logistics for your team. Look for a warehouse that is located right off one or more major freeways that will serve as a convenient stop for your personnel. You may also want to consider a freezer warehouse that is located near rail lines, which may open up the option of rail transportation for your frozen goods.
The company you choose should offer more than just a place to store your frozen food inventory – it should also be your food distribution logistics partner, assisting with numerous aspects of your cold chain process, from transportation logistics (loading, unloading, stripping and transloading) to order fulfillment and more. There should be utility vehicles and equipment available on-site, which makes it easier to maneuver and organize inventory within your cold storage space.
Asking what value-added services the company offers is a good start. Porter Logistics offers a variety of value-added services including, but not limited to:
You should also pay attention to the company’s dedication to process (or lack thereof). Ask for a tour of their facilities to observe their various services and amenities in action, and get a feel for their warehousing and transportation workflows. You will want a company with buttoned-up processes and hands-on support to help create a more seamless frozen food storage and distribution process for your business.
Food distributors can do better than the status quo when it comes to warehousing and third-party logistics (3PL) solutions. Excessive paperwork and low inventory accuracy simply will not cut it if you truly want to maintain a high level of efficiency within your business operations.
This is why it’s essential to choose a technology-driven company that uses digital tools like software to track and manage inventory and orders in real time and automate warehousing workflows. Advanced technology helps you automate order and inventory management workflows while giving you quick access to detailed reporting and performance trends. A more innovative cold storage and logistics partner will leverage technology that integrates with leading shopping platforms and marketplaces.
Your cold storage warehouse should be audited on a regular basis by government and third-party agencies that are trusted within the industry. Agency certifications and affiliations can serve as a testament of a storage provider’s commitment to excellence in safety and service. Look for a frozen food warehouse that maintains reputable food grade certifications, HAZMAT chemical certifications, and other approvals and affiliations with reputable groups and government entities that are responsible for upholding food safety standards.
Porter Logistics is a premiere warehousing and logistics solution that checks off all the boxes for food distributors that are looking for strategic cold storage spaces, logistical support, and technological innovation.
Porter Logistics offers:
When your food manufacturing, retail, or service companies are already dealing with challenges like rising business costs, labor shortages, and shifting trade regulations, having a reliable frozen food warehousing and logistics partner can help maximize operational efficiency, giving you one less thing to worry about.
Learn more about how Porter Logistics’ cold storage solutions can support your team.
At Porter Logistics, we believe that community and growth are inseparable. Inventory Lead Jamaal Blake exemplifies this philosophy, bringing over a year of experience in logistics and a fresh perspective to his role.
A Commitment to Community
Jamaal values the strong connections he has built with his colleagues, stating, “The community is what makes this place special.” His leadership philosophy centers on empowering both Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) and operations teams, aiming to cultivate self-sufficient units that will drive Porter Logistics’ future growth.
Guided by Mentorship
Inspired by industry leaders and guided by Porter Logistics’ leadership, Jamaal credits CEO Robert Crump and CFO John Foshee for mentoring his entrepreneurial journey. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping his approach to leadership and operational excellence.
A Renaissance Man
Beyond his professional life, Jamaal is a renaissance man of sorts. He is a skilled home chef who has mastered challenging dishes like Beef Wellington, an aspiring guitarist whose renditions of “Happy Birthday” and “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” are nothing short of impressive, and a passionate Jacksonville Jaguars fan.
A Multifaceted Individual
When he’s not leading his team at Porter Logistics, you might find him trading stocks, gaming (particularly dominating at Mario Kart), or experimenting in the kitchen. This Jacksonville native brings a unique blend of professional drive and personal passion to his role, embodying the diverse and dynamic culture at Porter Logistics.
