What goes into
a warehouse quotation?
A guide to comparing storage and handling scope for an East Coast B2B inventory program. Start with the goods and movement pattern.
Separate space from the work around it
The same number of pallets can generate different warehouse requirements. A single long storage period differs from frequent receiving, individual order picks and partial releases. Compare the charge basis and included work before comparing totals.
| Cost category | Confirm the basis and scope |
|---|---|
| Inbound receiving | Per delivery, pallet, carton or labor hour? Does it include unloading, count checks and labels? |
| Storage | Per pallet position, occupied area or volume? How are oversize and non-stackable goods treated? |
| Inventory work | What reporting and count checks are included? How are additional counts or reconciliation handled? |
| Outbound handling | Per order, line, piece or pallet? Separate picking, packing materials, labels and loading where applicable. |
| Transportation | Which route, carrier scope, delivery appointment and possible accessorial charges are included? |
| Other work / minimums | Identify minimum charges, returns, rework and any special handling before work begins. |
Agree on how the storage period is measured
Ask whether storage is based on a daily balance, an average, a peak position or another agreed snapshot. Confirm the billing period, rounding and minimums. A monthly price is difficult to compare if two quotations count space differently.
| Period | Occupied pallet positions | Position-days |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1–10 | 8 | 80 |
| Days 11–30 | 12 | 240 |
| Total / average | 320 ÷ 30 = 10.67 average | 320 |
For this example, month-end and peak occupancy are both 12 positions; the daily average is 10.67. The payable amount still depends on the agreed tariff, billing method and handling activity. This is not a SEESUN rate quotation.
Provide a profile that can be priced
Send the number of SKUs, pallet and carton dimensions, weight, stackability and expected stock range. Add first-arrival timing, storage duration, incoming frequency, typical orders per month, lines per order and delivery destinations. Identify special handling or inspection requirements early.
Ownership, insurance responsibilities and facility suitability also belong in the service discussion. The warehouse location and coverage are confirmed for the project.
Before we get started.
Is there one standard pallet storage price?
A meaningful quotation needs the pallet dimensions, storage method, duration and handling scope. Published prices from another facility do not establish the cost of your program.
Is IOR support included in warehouse pricing?
Do not assume so. Importer responsibilities, customs brokerage, duties, transport and warehouse work should be identified separately in the proposal.
Can I request storage without changing my importer arrangement?
Yes. Explain who handles the import and what receiving, inventory and delivery work you need.
Build the operating brief alongside the quotation
Review warehouse management, prepare receiving and release instructions, or send your stock profile.