When unexpected disaster occurs, it can cause significant delay and problems in warehousing and distribution channels.
Depending on the business, different supply chains put different disaster plans into action. Therefore, it is important to know what each member of your supply chain will do in an emergency or disaster situation, and how these actions will affect your warehousing and distribution business. Here are three steps you can take to prepare for disaster in warehousing and distribution:
- Plan by identifying all risks to your business and flow of operation before disaster occurs. This includes having a solid business continuity plan that carefully considers each part of the supply chain that comprises your warehousing and distribution business. In order to create such a plan, you will need to know your entire supply chain—from beginning to end customer—and all the moving parts that it requires.
- Secure all your company’s assets, including warehouses, distribution centers, fleets, terminals and administration offices. Any part of your day-to-day business operations that could be affected by disaster should be considered. What kind of back-up supplies, including back-up power, will you need?
- Collaborate with members of your supply chain to develop the best emergency preparedness strategy. This collaboration will be the most important process in making sure that your warehousing and distribution company is able to handle disaster situations.