Racking
Selective: Roll-Formed
Selective: Structural
Cantilever
Dynamic: Carton-Flow
Dynamic: Pallet-Flow
Dynamic: Push-Back
Pallet Shuttles (CS)
Mezzanine | Pick Modules (CS)
Rack Supported Buildings (CS)
Gravity Conveyor (CS)
Drive-In | Drive-Thru (CS)
Shelving
Shelving: Boltless Tab Rack
ServicesWhat is a logistics hub?
A logistics hub is the place within the logistics chain where goods are received, sorted, consolidated, and redistributed to multiple destinations. It acts as the link between suppliers, carriers, and the end customer, facilitating the continuous flow of products through various means of transport. This logistics center integrates technology, infrastructure, and coordinated processes to ensure that every package arrives on time. Unlike a simple warehouse, a hub processes massive volumes with speed and precision, making it a key logistics component for companies operating on a national or international scale.Characteristics of a logistics hub
Efficient hubs combine robust infrastructure, advanced technology, and optimized processes. Their distinctive features include:- Strategic location. Located near ports, airports, or major highways, these spaces facilitate rapid connections between different regions and modes of transport.
- Massive operational capacity. Designed to handle large simultaneous volumes of incoming and outgoing shipments, with coordinated flows that prevent bottlenecks.
- Multimodal integration. Direct connection to ground, rail, air, and sea transport, expanding the geographic reach of operations.
- Advanced WMS/TMS systems. Real-time inventory control, cargo tracking, and automated shipment management using advanced technologies.
- Specialized temperature control. For products that require cold chain storage, hubs are equipped with refrigerated chambers and rapid freezing systems.
- Operational flexibility. Ability to handle various types of cargo (perishable, industrial, pharmaceutical) under different storage conditions.
Differences between a logistics hub and a distribution center
| Aspect | Logistics Hub | Distribution Center |
| Main Function | Fast consolidation and redistribution | Storage and order preparation |
| length of stay | Hours or Days at most | Weeks or Months |
| Operation Volume | Very high, constant flow | Moderate, depending on demand |
| Connectivity | Multimodal (air, land, sea) | Mainly terrestrial |
| Logistics Activities | Cross-docking, consolidation | Picking, packing, storage |
| Focus | Speed and connection | Inventory and local distribution |
What are the different types of hubs?
Logistics hubs are classified according to three fundamental criteria: the mode of transport they use, their geographical scope, and the specific function they perform. Each classification responds to different operational needs within foreign trade and modern logistics.By mode of transport
- Land-based. Concentrated on highways and strategic road junctions, they handle rolling cargo by truck and rail. They are ideal for regional distribution and national connections.
- Airport-based. Located in areas adjacent to international airports, they specialize in air cargo and high-value products that require urgent delivery. Perfect for sectors such as technology and pharmaceuticals.
- Port. Located in maritime facilities, they handle containers and imported goods. The port serves as a natural entry point for international trade products that are then redistributed inland.
By geographic reach
- Regional. They serve specific metropolitan areas, optimizing the last mile to local consumers.
- National. They connect multiple states within the country, consolidating shipments from different regions to maximize transportation efficiency.
- International. They operate as global hubs, linking entire continents by integrating air, sea, and land logistics services.
By function
- Cross-docking. Goods are transferred directly from incoming vehicles to outgoing vehicles without prolonged storage. Reduces costs and speeds up distribution by applying the FIFO method.
- Open/public. Shared infrastructure where multiple companies operate simultaneously, optimizing resources and reducing individual investments.
- Private. Dedicated to a specific company, allowing total control over processes, warehouse signage, and customized operating standards.
Examples of logistics hubs in different industries
- Retail and e-commerce. Amazon operates massive hubs that process millions of orders during peak season, using automated warehouses with AS/RS systems for maximum speed.
- Automotive. Tesla maintains specialized hubs for electric vehicle components, where picking systems ensure immediate availability of spare parts.
- Perishable foods. Companies such as Walmart manage centers with strict temperature control, ensuring a cold chain from source to store using dynamic racks.
- Pharmaceutical. Laboratories use certified hubs with full traceability and controlled conditions for sensitive medications.
- Courier services. DHL and FedEx operate major logistics hubs at strategic airports, consolidating international packages that are then redistributed regionally.
Benefits of a logistics hub
- Reduced delivery times. By concentrating and organizing cargo efficiently, transit between the origin and final destination is streamlined.
- Cost optimization. Centralizing operations minimizes transportation costs and maximizes the capacity of each shipment.
- Greater flexibility. Ability to quickly adapt to peaks in demand or changes in supply routes.
- Better inventory management. Real-time visibility enables better decisions about stock and replenishment.
- Operational scalability. Infrastructure ready to grow as business volume increases.
How to choose racks for a logistics hub?
The right choice of storage solutions impacts the speed and efficiency of the hub. Consider these options based on your operation:- Selective Pallet racks. Direct access to each pallet, ideal for high-turnover products with multiple SKUs. Perfect when you need immediate visibility of inventory.
- Drive-in racks. Maximize storage density for homogeneous products with lower turnover. Reduce costs by taking advantage of the height and depth of the warehouse.
- Cantilever racks. Designed for long loads such as pipes, metal profiles, or wood. Essential in industrial hubs that handle construction materials.
- Mezzanine racks. Doubles usable space by creating additional levels without construction. Valuable when you need to separate picking and bulk storage operations.
- Carton flow racks. Gravity-fed system that facilitates automatic FIFO. Perfect for food hubs or products with expiration dates.
- Rack Supported Buildings. The structure itself forms the walls of the building, maximizing cubic utilization. Ideal for warehouses of the future with heights greater than 15 meters.
