Where Are Walmart Fulfilment Centers Located?

Walmart is the world's biggest retailer. Hence, it's natural that its supply chain network is humongous. The current strength of Walmart distribution centers occupies a total area of 146 million square feet while the retail stores of Walmart occupy 783 million square feet. From the first warehouse, which started functioning in 1970, Walmart's supply chain has grown and evolved by leaps and bounds. Walmart supplies all kinds of goods right from general merchandise to perishable products to its retail stores and Sam's Club stores through the network of distribution centers.

The network of Walmart distribution centers is dynamic and keeps on evolving. Thus, the suppliers of Walmart must remain updated about the list of distribution centers, stores, and clubs. Some examples of the kinds of network of Walmart distribution centers have been discussed here.

What are Walmart Distribution Centers?

Walmart distribution centers are large warehouses where products from suppliers and manufacturers are received, sorted, stored, and shipped to Walmart stores, Sam’s Clubs, and directly to online customers. On average, each distribution center is about 1 million square feet in size. They unload approximately 200 trucks per day and employ around 600 workers. Each distribution center supplies 90-100 Walmart stores within a 150 mile radius.

Types of Walmart Distribution Centers

There are two main types of distribution centers:

• Distribution centers - Receive, store, and distribute products to Walmart retail locations
• Fulfillment centers - Specialized in ecommerce order fulfillment by picking, packing and shipping products directly to online customers

In total, Walmart currently operates over 150 distribution centers in the US with plans for continued expansion.

Why Suppliers Should Know Walmart Distribution Centers

Walmart organizes its distribution network based on product categories and geographic regions. It's important for suppliers to know which distribution centers handle their type of products and where they are located. This helps suppliers plan transportation and align with Walmart's fulfillment network.

Examples of Distribution Center Types

There are many specialized distribution center types, including:

• Regional general merchandise
• Ecommerce fulfillment centers
• Specialty items like apparel, grocery, perishables
• Import redistribution
• Sam’s Club

For example, in the US there are:

• 25 ecommerce fulfillment centers
• 8 regional distribution centers supporting ecommerce
• 6 Sam’s Club ecommerce fulfillment centers
• 2 apparel fulfillment centers
• 3 import redistribution centers

Conclusion

As Walmart grows its ecommerce business, its distribution network is rapidly evolving. New fulfillment centers focused on online order delivery are opening domestically and internationally. Suppliers need to stay updated on these changes to successfully get products to the right locations.

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