Until recently, the concept of storage was limited to four walls where products and raw materials were kept. However, this understanding has changed in today's conditions dependent on time, efficiency, competition, and the global economy, coupled with customer needs and demands. Storage has evolved into a complementary back-end service that completes the supply chain, allowing for shipment in a planned manner, completing delivery processes, and expediting and facilitating the delivery processes.
As a result, when we talk about logistics, it is no longer just about transportation; it has become a comprehensive service that includes transportation, storage, and other value-added services such as packaging and loading.
Due to the integration of transportation and storage services, the selection of storage areas should be as close as possible to transportation processes. Providing logistics services in the right location with the correct port and transportation connections plays a significant role in reducing logistics costs and, consequently, product costs for customers. This strategic approach ensures that storage areas are chosen in proximity to transportation processes, optimizing the overall efficiency of logistics operations.
In providing services that should be offered holistically from the customer to the port and from the port to the customer, one of the critical parameters is the product's characteristics. Planning and operations based on the product are crucial. The correct choice of storage space, equipment used during storage, packaging, and shipment processes tailored to demand vary for each product. Since logistics services will vary depending on the type of cargo, services should be carefully selected and implemented according to the product.
Due to economies of scale resulting from the increasing tonnage of ships, growing demand due to demographic factors, and the consequent increase in transported cargo, storage capacity in Iskenderun and its nearby hinterland will need more over time. With this awareness, Erkport continues its efforts and investments, focusing on customer satisfaction. Considering the transit trade of a significant portion of cargo from Iskenderun to nearby countries, we have accelerated warehouse investments. In addition to our existing 10,000 m2 warehouse in Iskenderun, we have decided to invest in a new 18,000 m2 warehouse, which will be operational in 2023, with additional equipment and expert staff, further enhancing our services. This expansion will not only accommodate bulk grain products, which constitute a significant portion of the handled cargo but also allow for the storage and handling of packaged products arriving/departing in containers with increased storage space.