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Are you looking to rent a small warehouse for your business operations? Finding the right warehouse space can be a challenging process, but following the right steps will help you identify the perfect facility to meet your needs. Whether you need a space for inventory storage, product distribution, light manufacturing, or other industrial uses, this guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when searching for a small warehouse rental.
Determine Your Space Needs
First, you want to decide the scale of the space you require. Consider how a good deal rectangular pictures you need for stock garage, manufacturing system, shipping/receiving operations, workplace space, and many others. Anticipate your growth wishes as properly so you do not outgrow the distance too speedy. The format and ceiling height are different vital issues.
Look for Vacant Warehouse Spaces
Next, search for available warehouse spaces in your target locations. Drive around industrial areas and look for “For Lease” signs. Check online real estate sites like LoopNet and CommercialMLS for listings. You can filter by property type, size, location, and other specifics to zero in on options. Subscribe to alerts so new listings matching your criteria are emailed to you when posted.
Search Online Listings
In addition to real estate sites, you can search general online classifieds like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace to find warehouse rentals advertised directly by building owners. These are often small, privately owned warehouses. The prices may be more affordable than spaces listed by commercial realtors.
Check Industrial Parks
Contact the management office of local industrial parks, which often have smaller flex spaces or units available at competitive rates. Being part of an established development offers benefits like shared access, amenities, maintenance, and security.
Contact Commercial Real Estate Agents
Loop in commercial real estate brokers who specialize in warehouse and industrial properties in your area. They can advise you on current market conditions and may have access to unlisted properties that suit your requirements. Some may represent building owners directly and can facilitate lease negotiations.
Drive Around Potential Areas
There’s no substitute for scouting potential locations in person to get a feel for the neighborhood, surrounding businesses, access to highways/major roads, and other logistical considerations. Look for vacancy signs and call the numbers listed. Some owners prefer to work directly with tenants to avoid broker fees. Great post to read victoria logistics carrier.
Evaluate Condition and Features
Tour the shortlisted spaces to assess their condition and amenities. Look for a unit shell that is clean, well-maintained, and ready for occupancy. Important features may include grade-level and dock-high loading doors, ample parking, adequate lighting, fire sprinklers, reinforced flooring, and more.
Consider Accessibility
Consider the accessibility of the warehouse location for your operations. Proximity to major highways, arterial roads, airports, rail lines, etc. can optimize transportation logistics. Easy access for employees and customers is also key. If zoned, clear height requirements for truck access.
Research Zoning Regulations
Ensure the property is zoned for your intended business use – industrial, commercial, or mixed-use. This determines the permitted uses, like manufacturing, distribution, warehouse, etc. Restrictions may apply so verify your activities are allowed. Is any special licensing required?
Ask About Utilities and Services
Clarify which utilities and services are included in the lease terms. Many warehouses offer basics like gas, electric, water, sewer, and trash pickup. Others charge separately for some or all utilities. Factor these costs when comparing rental rates between spaces.
Consider Expansion Potential
If your business has growth projections down the line, consider spaces that can accommodate expansion. Some warehouses have unused land around the existing building suitable for adding on. There may even be adjacent vacant bays or units to rent later for expansion.
Negotiate the Lease
Once you’ve selected a space, negotiate the lease terms that work for your business. Typical agreements run 1-5 years. Clarify the base rent plus any CAM fees, annual escalations, renewal options, tenant improvement allowances, and other clauses before signing.
Plan Your Build-Out and Renovations
Most rented warehouse shells are delivered empty with little interior improvement. Budget and plan any build-outs like office spaces, lighting, shelving, or customizations. Factor in costs and construction timelines so the space is ready when you need to occupy it.
Summary
Finding a small warehouse space to rent requires research, planning, and good negotiation skills. Determine your needs, search listings, tour options, and compare rates to select the right unit. Evaluate features, location, accessibility, zoning, and growth potential. With due diligence, you can secure an affordable warehouse with the specifications, amenities, and flexibility your business requires.
People Asked About
What are the main factors to evaluate when touring warehouse spaces?
When touring warehouse spaces, key factors to evaluate include the overall condition, square footage, office build-out, loading docks, drive-in access, ceiling clearance, flooring, lighting, power supply, fire safety, accessibility, parking, and expansion potential.
What questions should I ask the landlord before signing a warehouse lease?
Important questions to ask the landlord include: What is included in the base rent? Who pays for utilities and other services? What are the terms for deposit, annual escalations, and renewal? Who handles maintenance and repairs? What are the zoning restrictions and permitted uses?
Should I work with a broker to find warehouse space or search independently?
A commercial real estate broker can leverage their relationships and market knowledge to identify suitable spaces. However, you may find cheaper rental rates and more flexibility working directly with building owners listed on sites like Craigslist and LoopNet.
What build-out costs should I budget for when renting raw warehouse space?
Typical build-out costs for raw warehouse space include installing offices, bathrooms, lighting, HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, fire sprinklers, shelving, racking, security systems, signs, and any other customizations required for your operations.
What are the pros and cons of leasing warehouse space in an industrial park?
Pros of industrial park units include established infrastructure, shared access/amenities, maintenance services, security, and a community of similar businesses. Cons can be higher standard rental rates and less flexibility or control compared to a standalone building.
