Info on B&M distribution business model?

[Garthog]

So I find plenty on sourcing, dropshipping, FBA and such, but for the life of me can't find anything on the actual Brick & Mortar (B&M) distribution aspect for those looking to go that route.

My potential partner has been importing and exporting for years, but he's kind of a hustler without organisational (or internet) skills. I don't want to give the wrong impression, but think of importing stock liquidations from first world markets and exporting them to... less-than-obvious international markets. Nothing shady, he just has the right connections and experience in those markets.

We intend to start an import-export business to automate what he already has going on and expand that with an online brand for B2C and B2B distribution.

For that we need to lease a warehouse and start your typical warehousing... stuff?

Are there any sources on setting up the processes around a B&M warehouse? I'm looking for checklists, what the day-to-day operations look like etc.

Of course I can start like anyone else here, but I believe the physical warehouse can give me a leg up. My potential partner's business can cover the overhead, so that's not the problem. I just don't know where to educate myself on this aspect.

Any help?

 

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[Vigilante]

http://www.amazon.com/Warehouse-Management-Improving-Efficiency-Minimizing/dp/074946934X/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1423835293&sr=8-7&keywords=opening a warehouse

http://www.amazon.com/dp/007176626X/?tag=tff-amazonparser-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/0915910659/?tag=tff-amazonparser-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/0071376003/?tag=tff-amazonparser-20

 

[Vigilante]

Then, take a trip to a public warehouse as a prospective customer and ask any question you can think of.

http://www.inboundlogistics.com/cms/article/choosing-the-right-public-warehouse/

 

[CPisHere]

I've worked in distribution. What specifically do you want to know?

It's simple enough to find real estate to lease - though an under-utilized and cheaper tactic would be to find an established distributor and see about sub-leasing some space.

Once you have space, put up racks. When inventory comes in, put it in the racks. Set up a UPS account. When you get an order, use UPS to ship it out. When you are just starting out, that's all you need - no fancy picking system or cycle count procedures. That stuff will develop over time.

 

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