Commercial Real Estate in Florida available for sale
Fulfillment Centers For Sale

Fulfillment Centers for Sale in Florida, USA

More details for 405 W Interlake Blvd, Lake Placid, FL - Office for Sale
  • Matterport 3D Tour

405 W Interlake Blvd

Lake Placid, FL 33852

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Office for Sale
  • $1,205,732 CAD
  • 3,181 SF
  • Air Conditioning
  • Security System
  • Reception
  • Smoke Detector

Lake Placid Office for Sale

405 W Interlake Boulevard delivers an excellent investment and future development opportunity in the heart of Lake Placid, Florida. The building can be utilized for owner use, rental investment or both and has 3 separate electric meters. It is currently owner use with no tenants. Spanning approximately 3,100 square feet, the existing office building features robust concrete block (CBS) construction with a standing-seam metal roof and hurricane shutters. The wraparound porch has aluminum railings, recessed can lights, and Victorian outdoor lighting. There are two main entrances, each with double metal doors, leading into beautiful foyers with tray ceilings and recessed lighting. One side is set up for retail, with a large counter, cabinets, a slat board, and a large display area, while the other is a more professional setup, with a reception desk and waiting area. Ceilings are 10 feet tall, and the solid-wood doors stand 8 feet tall. Four ADA-compliant accessible bathrooms (two on each side) and two rear entrances (also metal doors) with keyless entry for employees make access effortless. Interior spaces include conference rooms, offices, break rooms, media closets, and more, including a large attic storage area with pull-down stairs on each side. There are three electric meters, one for each side and a third for the outdoor lighting and irrigation. 405 W Interlake Boulevard has a 15-kilowatt Generac generator with a 500-gallon propane tank wired for automatic switching, three air conditioning units, a water meter, city water, septic, security system with hard-wired cameras, and much more. For developers seeking expansion potential, the property spans 1.68 acres and offers ample room for on-site additional structures. The original site plan is available to view the intended development's initial concept. The site features an asphalt driveway, concrete parking areas, and Victorian globe lighting, which add to the ambiance of this property. Moreover, a large backlit sign serves as a visual anchor for business branding, offering a distinguished presence to the surrounding residences and commercial hubs. Centrally located in Highlands County, Lake Placid is within two hours of many major cities, including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa, Orlando, Sarasota, and West Palm Beach. Lake Placid is just south of Sebring, where the infamous 12 Hours of Sebring is held every March. This area is expanding as big-box companies move into the county every day including a new Amazon distribution center minutes away. Plus, the newly opened exclusive High Grove Golf Club is just a couple of miles away. Hurry, this property won't last long. 405 W Interlake Boulevard presents the opportunity to expand business while exploring potential rent income and development options.

Contact:

Lake Placid Club Inc.

Date on Market:

2025-09-22

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More details for 2570 Champion Ring Rd, Fort Myers, FL - Land for Sale

2570 Champion Ring Rd

Fort Myers, FL 33905

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $3,478,022 CAD
  • 2.82 AC Lot
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More details for S Kings Hwy, Fort Pierce, FL - Land for Sale

Kings Highway Commerce Center Development - S Kings Hwy

Fort Pierce, FL 34945

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $10,011,025 CAD
  • 26.04 AC Lot

Fort Pierce Land for Sale

Offered at $7,265,000, this 26.04-acre site presents a prime development opportunity with flexible Commercial Parkway entitlements and included engineering plans. The property offers outstanding visibility and accessibility with frontage along Kings Highway and additional access from Graham Road and White Road. Situated in one of Florida’s most dynamic logistics and transportation hubs, the site is strategically located approximately 1.5 miles from I-95 (Southbound Okeechobee Road/State Road 70 Exit and Northbound Orange Avenue Exit) and less than a mile from Florida’s Turnpike (Exit 152), also known as the Turnpike Feeder Road. It is also within one mile of the four-lane SR-70 East-West corridor, providing exceptional connectivity for regional distribution. Directly across White Road, Amazon has secured approvals for a major two-phase distribution hub totaling 95.45 acres. Phase 1 includes a 1.1 million square foot Whole Foods distribution center employing 745 people, with Phase 2 adding another 500 jobs. Planned infrastructure improvements tied to Amazon’s project—such as the expansion of White Road, new signalized intersections at Kings Highway and White Road, and enhanced roadway connections—further elevate the property’s development appeal. The site is also only five miles from Treasure Coast International Airport, which is poised for major expansion and improved connectivity to both I-95 and the Turnpike, reinforcing the area’s future as a critical gateway for domestic and international transportation.

Contact:

Real Estate of Florida

Property Subtype:

Commercial

Date on Market:

2026-05-13

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More details for 2282 Jungle dr, Ruskin, FL - Land for Sale

2282 Jungle Drive - 2282 Jungle dr

Ruskin, FL 33570

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $1,032,107 CAD
  • 0.90 AC Lot
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More details for 1539 N Kings Hwy, Fort Pierce, FL - Land for Sale

Turnpike Feeder Road - 1539 N Kings Hwy

Fort Pierce, FL 34947

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $10,334,850 CAD
  • 17.32 AC Lot

Fort Pierce Land for Sale

Prime Industrial Development Opportunity – 17.32 Acres at 1539 N Kings Highway, Fort Pierce, FL 34947 This expansive 17.32-acre industrial-zoned parcel offers an outstanding canvas for commercial and industrial development in one of Florida’s fastest-growing corridors along Kings Highway in Fort Pierce (St. Lucie County). Strategically positioned with excellent visibility and access, the site benefits from ongoing infrastructure improvements, including the widening of Kings Highway to a four-lane divided highway, which will enhance connectivity to I-95, Florida’s Turnpike, and major regional markets. Key Features and Advantages: Size and Zoning: 17.32 acres of Industrial zoning (likely IL – Industrial Light or equivalent in St. Lucie County), ideal for a wide range of permitted uses including light manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, wholesale, construction services, business services, and more. This flexible zoning supports efficient development with minimal restrictions compared to commercial or residential districts. Location Benefits: Situated in the heart of the Kings Highway Jobs Corridor, a priority area for economic growth featuring new Class A industrial parks, distribution centers (including recent Amazon approvals bringing hundreds of jobs), and pro-business incentives. Proximity to major transportation routes positions the property perfectly for logistics, supply chain, and manufacturing operations serving Orlando (approx. 100 miles north), Miami (approx. 100 miles south), and key ports. Development Potential: Mostly cleared or ready for grading, the site can accommodate large single-user facilities, multi-building industrial parks, or subdivision for multiple tenants. Strong regional demand for industrial space in the Treasure Coast makes this a high-upside investment. Fort Pierce and St. Lucie County offer a supportive business environment with a skilled workforce, competitive incentives, and rapid growth in the industrial sector. This property is perfectly suited for forward-thinking developers, investors, or end-users looking to capitalize on the area’s momentum. Property Overview: This exceptional 17.32-acre site, formerly a citrus grove, offers a rare opportunity in the heart of the rapidly expanding Kings Highway Jobs Corridor in St. Lucie County. With 664 feet of prime frontage on North Kings Highway and excellent visibility from I-95 (southwest exposure), the property is perfectly positioned for high-impact industrial, distribution, manufacturing, or multi-tenant development.Strategic Location & Momentum The site sits in one of Treasure Coast’s most dynamic growth corridors, directly benefiting from significant public and private investment. Immediate area Highlights Include: Old Dominion Freight Line new distribution center approved and under construction directly across North Kings Highway. Kelly Tractor brand-new state-of-the-art facility recently completed nearby. Multiple additional industrial and logistics projects advancing in the corridor. FDOT is scheduled to begin major construction on Kings Highway improvements in the Fall of 2026. Whether you’re planning a distribution center, manufacturing facility, storage/warehouse complex, or mixed industrial development, this parcel delivers scale, location, and zoning advantages in a high-growth market.

Contact:

Coldwell Banker Commercial Paradise

Property Subtype:

Industrial

Date on Market:

2026-05-08

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More details for 10207-10235 General Dr, Orlando, FL - Industrial for Sale

Parkway Distribution Center - 10207-10235 General Dr

Orlando, FL 32824

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Industrial for Sale
  • $2,480,350 CAD
  • 8,479 SF
  • 1 Unit Available
  • 24 Hour Access
  • Controlled Access

Orlando Industrial for Sale - SE Orange Outlying

This offering presents an opportunity to acquire a stabilized industrial warehouse asset in the highly desirable submarket of Orlando. The property comprises 8,479 SF and is the largest warehouse unit within an 8-unit industrial building, providing a unique combination of scale and functionality that is rarely available in comparable condominium assets. This 8,479 SF asset (±646 SF office / ±7,786 SF warehouse) is currently leased to a national telecommunications infrastructure contractor through September 17, 2026, providing stable cash flow during the near term. The tenant has an established presence at the property, and there is a strong possibility of renewal, while the lease term also offers clear timing for an owner-user to plan occupancy. The property is currently leased at $11.55/SF, representing a significant discount to market rents ($15–$18/SF), creating a compelling mark-to-market opportunity for investors or the ability for an owner-user to acquire at a basis supported by below-market income. Constructed of concrete block, the building offers 16–17 ft clear height, two dock-high doors (including one with lift), and a secured fenced/gated configuration, making it highly functional for logistics, distribution, or service-based operations. The office buildout includes a reception area, two private offices, and dual restrooms. Strategically located with immediate access to Florida Turnpike, SR 528 (Beachline Expressway), and SR 417 (Central Florida GreeneWay), and minutes from Orlando International Airport, the property sits within one of Central Florida’s most active industrial corridors. This asset provides immediate return with embedded upside, while also presenting a rare opportunity for an owner-user to secure a well-located facility with near-term occupancy optionality.

Contact:

AG Properties LLC

Property Subtype:

Warehouse

Date on Market:

2026-05-07

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More details for 713 W Palm Dr, Florida City, FL - Specialty for Sale

STNL Florida City Educational Campus - 713 W Palm Dr

Florida City, FL 33034

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Specialty for Sale
  • $19,016,124 CAD
  • 30,421 SF
  • Air Conditioning
  • Controlled Access
  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Smoke Detector

Florida City Specialty for Sale - South Dade

GoCommercial presents the exclusive opportunity to acquire a single tenant net leased Florida City Educational Campus, a landmark institutional educational asset at 713 West Palm Drive, Florida City, Florida. The offering consists of a fully stabilized 30,421 SF purpose-built K-8 educational facility coupled with a contiguous 1.47 acre expansion parcel with approved engineered plans for a mirroring facility, providing a path to doubling total campus capacity to 60,000+ SF on a unified 2.94 acre site. PARCEL STRUCTURE The offering is comprised of two separate tax folios. Parcel 1 (Folio 16-7825-000-0390) is the income producing 30,421 SF school building, a three story purpose built facility constructed with steel-reinforced concrete floors and walls, hurricane impact glass and doors meeting Miami-Dade HVHZ standards, all steel joists and trusses, and a concrete tile roof over corrugated steel decking. Parcel 2 (Folio 16-7825-000-0400) is the contiguous 1.47-acre expansion site with approved engineered plans for an identical mirroring 30,421 SF facility. The school building may be acquired independently for $10.9MM or together with the expansion parcel as a combined campus assemblage. The expansion parcel is not available for separate purchase. LEASE & INCOME The property is subject to an Absolute Triple Net (NNN) lease with Advanced Achievers Academy, a Florida-licensed Title I-eligible private school in continuous occupancy since July 1, 2015. The NNN structure provides a fully passive income stream with zero landlord obligations, offering a 5.23% cap rate at the asking price. Current base rent is $47,503.88 per month ($570,046.53 annually), escalating annually by the greater of 3% or CPI. The initial 15-year term expires June 30, 2030, with one 15-year renewal option at market rate, providing significant upside given current rents of $18.74/SF versus the $30/SF market rate. The tenant has expressed interest in early execution of the renewal option. The lease is personally guaranteed by principals of the tenant entity. Cap rates referenced in this offering reflect pricing for Parcel 1, the occupied school building, exclusive of the adjacent expansion parcel, which is available separately and represents additional value not reflected in the income-based valuation. TENANT PROFILE Advanced Achievers Academy (AAA) is a premier Kindergarten through 8th Grade provider serving South Dade since 2015. Confirmed enrollment of 350 to 365 students places AAA in the top 20% of Florida private schools for student body size and diversity. Published tuition for 2025 to 2026 is $11,900 annually plus $750 in registration fees per student. The Academy has maintained full enrollment throughout its decade of occupancy with no instances of default or missed rental obligations. GOVERNMENT BACKED REVENUE A defining credit differentiator is AAA's participation in Florida's universal school choice framework. The school is a primary recipient of Step Up For Students scholarship funds including the Family Empowerment Scholarship (FES EO and FES UA), Gardiner Scholarship, McKay Scholarship, and Florida Tax Credit Scholarship. The State of Florida issues direct, non-cyclical payments to the school on behalf of enrolled students, creating a government-supported revenue stream independent of household economic conditions. Based on confirmed enrollment and average blended scholarship awards of $8,500 to $9,000 per student, the State of Florida provides $3.1M to $3.5M in annual government-sourced gross revenue, representing approximately 5.5x coverage of the current annual base rent. 2030 MARKET RATE RESET Current rents of approximately $18.74/SF are well below the prevailing market rate of $28 to $35/SF for purpose built NNN educational space in Southern Miami Dade County. The contractual reset to Fair Market Value at the 2030 renewal represents a substantial equity kicker for the buyer regardless of whether the current tenant executes the renewal or a competing operator takes over the campus. Miami-Dade's purpose-built educational space operates at sub 2% vacancy, and national charter and private schools actively seek turnkey campuses to bypass the 24 to 36-month entitlement cycle. Current ownership receives consistent inbound inquiries from competing schools seeking this location. EXPANSION OPPORTUNITY Parcel 2 carries approved engineered plans for a mirroring 30,421 SF facility. Site geometry, drainage, and parking ratios are already established. AAA has expressed active expansion interest and currently pays all property taxes on the expansion parcel for overflow use. A buyer may negotiate a Phase II pre-lease with AAA during due diligence, eliminating lease-up risk and unlocking institutional construction financing. Phase II may alternatively be developed as an independent, autonomous, and complementary educational facility, creating a two-tenant educational hub on a single campus. MARKET & DEMOGRAPHICS Florida City sits at the heart of Miami-Dade County's most explosive growth corridor. The 1-mile radius surged 17.18% in population from 2020 to 2025 and is projected to grow an additional 9.51% through 2030, approximately nine times the national average. Growth is driven by the adjacent 2.4 million SF Amazon South Dade Distribution Center, Homestead Air Reserve Base (7,200 personnel), and the Florida Keys gateway economy. Median household income within 1 mile is $51,659. The property is located less than 1 mile from Route 1 and the Ronald Reagan Turnpike. BARRIERS TO ENTRY Developing a new K12 facility in Miami-Dade County requires 24 to 36 months of zoning, concurrency, and municipal approvals across multiple independent agencies. Institutional use zoning in this corridor is scarce. Construction costs for purpose built educational facilities exceed $450 to $500/SF, placing replacement cost at $13.7M to $15.2M, well above the current acquisition basis of approximately $358/SF. Please do not disturb tenant. All tours must be scheduled through the listing broker. Buyer reps welcome.

Contact:

GoCommercial

Property Subtype:

Schools

Date on Market:

2026-03-31

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More details for 10200 Metro Pky, Fort Myers, FL - Land for Sale

Prime Dev Site across from To Be Built Costco - 10200 Metro Pky

Fort Myers, FL 33966

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $5,167,425 CAD
  • 5.23 AC Lot
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More details for 110-112 W Interlake Blvd, Lake Placid, FL - Industrial for Sale

110-112 W Interlake Blvd

Lake Placid, FL 33852

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Industrial for Sale
  • $6,883,010 CAD
  • 44,309 SF
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More details for 3144 US-441, Lake City, FL - Land for Sale

Gateway Grove LLC - 3144 US-441

Lake City, FL 32055

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $2,066,970 CAD
  • 31.07 AC Lot
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More details for 1484 Tomoka Farms Rd, Daytona Beach, FL - Land for Sale

1484 Tomoka Farms Rd., Daytona Beach - 1484 Tomoka Farms Rd

Daytona Beach, FL 32124

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $1,825,823 CAD
  • 10.76 AC Lot
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More details for 5010 New Tampa Hwy, Lakeland, FL - Land for Sale

Vistas Multifamily Land - 5010 New Tampa Hwy

Lakeland, FL 33815

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $1,446,879 CAD
  • 7.06 AC Lot
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More details for 2418 Xelda Ave N, Lehigh Acres, FL - Multifamily for Sale

2416 - 2418 Xelda Ave N. Lehigh Acres - 2418 Xelda Ave N

Lehigh Acres, FL 33971

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Multifamily for Sale
  • $687,612 CAD
  • 2,242 SF
  • Air Conditioning
  • Private Bathroom
  • Kitchen
  • Smoke Detector

Lehigh Acres Multifamily for Sale - Lehigh

Investment Opportunity: Brand New 2025 Duplex in High-Growth Lehigh AcresSecure a high-yield asset in one of South Florida’s fastest-growing markets. This brand-new duplex is 100% occupied with 18-month leases, offering immediate, turnkey cash flow for the savvy investor. Financial & Property Advantages: Zero HOA Zero Water fee, just pay for equipment maintenance, $40 per month approx. Separated FPL meters per unit. Impact Windows already No Flood Insurance Required, Zone X, saving you thousands in annual operating expenses. Low Insurance Costs; New 2026 construction qualifies for the lowest premium rates (estimated $1,400–$1,800/year). Configuration: 6 Bedrooms / 4 Bathrooms (Two 3/2 units). External fencing for more privacy Parking: Double external tandem parking per unit. Premium Finishes: Full ceramic tile flooring, modern appliances, and durable paver driveways. Strategic Location & Employment Hub: Lehigh Acres is the epicenter of Lee County’s industrial and residential expansion. Located within 20 miles of major logistics hubs, your tenant base is backed by stable, high-growth employers: Amazon Robotics Fulfillment Center: A new 650,000 sq. ft. facility on SR-82, bringing 1,000+ permanent jobs to the immediate area (2026/2027). Logistics Network: Proximity to two Amazon Delivery Stations and a Sortation Center near RSW International Airport. Skyplex (RSW Airport): A 1,150-acre innovation hub for aviation, logistics, and medical tech—often called the "Silicon Valley of SW Florida. Healthcare Expansion: New Lee Health medical facilities nearby attracting high-quality "Class A" professional tenants. Blackstone Corporate Park: Massive industrial development on SR-82 driving regional distribution and manufacturing growth. Demographics Highlights: Lehigh Acres has grown nearly 17% in the last 5 years, consistently outperforming national averages: Year Population Annual Growth. Year. Population. % Variation 2021 117,144. 2.50% 2022. 123,450. 5.38% 2023. 127,391. 3.19% 2024. 130,500. 2.44% 2025. 133,638 2.40% 2026. 136,762. 2.34% (Forecast) Don't miss this opportunity to acquire a high-capitalization asset with minimal overhead. Contact us today for a full pro-forma and ROI analysis.

Contact:

Axia Capital LLC

Property Subtype:

Multi Family

Date on Market:

2026-02-16

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More details for 581 NW Mercantile Pl, Port Saint Lucie, FL - Flex for Sale

581 NW Mercantile Pl

Port Saint Lucie, FL 34986

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Flex for Sale
  • $530,522 CAD
  • 12,806 SF
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More details for County Road 52, San Antonio, FL - Land for Sale

4.92 Acres in San Antonio - County Road 52

San Antonio, FL 33576

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $4,132,562 CAD
  • 4.92 AC Lot
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More details for 2208 W 21st St, Jacksonville, FL - Industrial for Sale

2208 W 21st St

Jacksonville, FL 32209

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Industrial for Sale
  • $6,063,112 CAD
  • 41,410 SF
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More details for 26034 County Road 448A, Mount Dora, FL - Land for Sale

26034 County Road 448A

Mount Dora, FL 32757

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $2,549,263 CAD
  • 12 AC Lot

Mount Dora Land for Sale - Lake County

Spanning just over 12 acres, 26034 CR 448A in Mount Dora offers a uniquely situated and highly strategic opportunity for commercial or industrial developers seeking long-term value and exceptional flexibility. Positioned centrally between U.S. Highway 441 and County Road 561, the property provides outstanding access and visibility for users needing strong logistical connectivity. Located just west of 441 and minutes from Downtown Mount Dora, it sits at the Lake/Orange County line—placing it squarely within one of Central Florida’s most active and rapidly expanding growth corridors. Its proximity to SR 46, SR 453, and the 429/414 expressway network further enhances regional access, making the site ideal for a future distribution center, industrial park, or commercial operation. The property benefits from a County-approved Planned Unit Development (PUD)—with approval documentation attached—and holds an Industrial Future Land Use designation, establishing a clear and streamlined pathway for development. Surrounded by established industrial uses to the north, the site naturally aligns with the ongoing momentum of the Mount Dora and Wolf Branch Innovation District. The expansive acreage provides ample room for flexible site planning, build-to-suit options, phased development, or future expansion. As growth continues along the 441 corridor, County Road 561, SR 46, and throughout the Innovation District, this property stands out for its long-term investment potential and strategic positioning. Whether building an industrial facility, establishing a commercial operation, or holding for future value, this site delivers size, location, and entitlement advantages rarely available in the market. Existing 3-Phase, 300 amp, electric service. A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment and a recent survey are also available to support buyer due diligence and streamline development planning. *Seller Financing Available*

Contact:

Coldwell Banker Hubbard Hansen

Property Subtype:

Industrial

Date on Market:

2025-12-11

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More details for 2083 W Midway Rd, Fort Pierce, FL - Land for Sale

2.1-acre waterfront development site - 2083 W Midway Rd

Fort Pierce, FL 34981

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $756,511 CAD
  • 2.10 AC Lot
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More details for 13275 SW 136th St, Miami, FL - Industrial for Sale

Tamiami Industrial Park - 13275 SW 136th St

Miami, FL 33186

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Industrial for Sale
  • $2,749,070 CAD
  • 6,121 SF
  • 1 Unit Available
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More details for 1308 E Alsobrook St, Plant City, FL - Land for Sale

Strawberry Flats Apartments Development - 1308 E Alsobrook St

Plant City, FL 33563

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $2,749,070 CAD
  • 5.48 AC Lot
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More details for 216 Marian Oaks, Ocala, FL - Land for Sale

Shopping Center Developer Opportunity - 216 Marian Oaks

Ocala, FL 34473

  • Fulfillment Center
  • Land for Sale
  • $723,439 CAD
  • 1.10 AC Lot
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Fulfillment Centers For Sale

Fulfillment Centers

What is a fulfillment center?

A fulfillment center is a large warehouse that stores and processes customer orders. It's also often referred to as a "fulfillment house." A single fulfillment center can handle all of an online retailer's inventory, or just part of it.

When online retailers use fulfillment centers, they have the option of shipping products directly to consumers from a warehouse or storing the inventory in a fulfillment center and then having it shipped to consumers on their behalf. Fulfillment and distribution businesses are responsible for picking, packing, shipping, and customer service.

Fulfillment centers work with e-commerce retailers by receiving customer orders at the beginning of the day and shipping them out as quickly as possible. They tend to focus on processes over technology. Fulfillment warehouses usually have large floorspace for retail space that is not optimized for high speed but rather storage density due to low ceilings and/or relatively short distances between racks of product. The realization that such floor plans are less desirable than ones with higher ceilings and better use of aisle space are beginning to change how some of the largest fulfillment warehouses are being designed as well as pushing for their inclusion in existing facilities.

How is a fulfillment center different from a distribution center?

Both the distribution center and the fulfillment center are warehouse facilities that handle inventory. However, there is a difference between these two models. A distribution center may also be used to store goods in transit from suppliers or products awaiting transportation to a customer, whereas fulfillment centers usually do not receive shipments on behalf of other businesses.

A fulfillment center's main function is packing and delivering orders placed online, while a distribution center focuses more on storing boxed items waiting for shipment. Apart from this distinction, fulfillment and distribution warehouses share many similar characteristics: They're large-format with high ceilings; they house hundreds of thousands of square feet in order to meet short deadlines; they feature automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS); they are strategically located near major transportation hubs; and they require dedicated IT infrastructure.

The biggest difference between a warehouse and a fulfillment center is in the type of inventory stored in the facility. A warehouse contains product for retail outlets, while a fulfillment center's inventory is sold directly to consumers via the Internet or catalogs. Fulfillment centers store products that are typically ordered online by consumers and used within 30-90 days. Orders arrive at the distribution center on pallets from suppliers or other warehouses; workers unload these pallets onto conveyor belts and sort them into one of many merchandise bins that may contain similar items. When an order comes through, it goes to work with more personal service (for example, sending a book to one customer, and a CD to another). This order is then assigned to one of many packing stations and given an address label.

Why do fulfillment centers exist?

When an online retailer is unable to keep up with the fast pace of orders placed through their website, they hire fulfillment centers to help them process and ship incoming orders. There are many reasons why retailers outsource this service - some of which include:

Order volume – Online sales continue to grow steadily year after year. Fulfillment centers have a greater capacity for order fulfillment than most retail locations because they're able to handle high volumes from multiple e-commerce websites, as well as fulfill individual customer orders.  
Inventory storage – Retailers often sell items at different times throughout the year such as summer apparel or winter goods that aren't in high demand until the appropriate season arrives. They can store these products at a fulfillment center, freeing up valuable space.

Are fulfillment centers a growing trend?  

The economics of the fulfillment center business continues to revolve around efficiency. Fulfillment centers, on average, are projected to grow annually year over year. Greater public awareness of the importance fulfillment centers play in online retail and their contribution to the economy will likely make it easier for them to address overall shortages that are projected to increase in the coming years.

In the last decade, fulfillment centers have shifted their focus to provide e-commerce retailers with speedy and cost-effective solutions in order to help them stay competitive.

 

Looking to lease a Fulfillment Center? View Fulfillment Centers for lease