More online shoppers are demanding shorter delivery times, a trend that is driving changes at warehouses across the nation.
Retailers are increasingly shifting from massive distribution centers to smaller warehouses that are closer to consumers, according to a recent study by business research firm Zebra Technologies.
“When you order that T-shirt, you absolutely expect you’re going to click ‘receive in two days’ and it’s going to be in your house in two days,” Zebra marketing executive Dan Chamberlain told The Chicago Tribune.
Seventy-six percent of warehouse managers plan to open more locations in the near future, up from 48 percent in 2013, the study found.
To help retailers meet consumers’ changing needs, the Postal Service offers a variety of flexible shipping options, including Sunday and same-day deliveries.
“I don’t think anyone sees consumer demands abating,” Chamberlain said. “I don’t think you’re going to see a future where you’re going to say, ‘Eh, I used to be able to get it in two days, but now four days is fine.”