If you own a company in the warehouse distribution industry, you would do well to partner with warehousing associations to strengthen your business expertise and credibility. Industry organizations bring together professionals with similar goals and challenges. Members of industry organizations come from all company divisions, but across share the same objective of expanding their knowledge.

Becoming a member of the right organization opens the door to a wealth of expertise. You will be exposed to many networking opportunities, information and resources. Additionally, warehousing professional organizations may also provide invaluable services that include new products, education opportunities and industry support. When looking for membership with a warehouse organization, remember the following:

1. Make sure the association you're interested in is credible. Check BBB or other industry accreditations.

2. Many organizations don’t stipulate membership for certification.

3. Most professional warehousing associations charge fees for memberships, so make sure you’re getting your money’s worth before you pay.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Become a member of an accredited warehouse distribution organization

Although many organizations offer information, tools and resources to non-members, you can benefit substantially from becoming a member. Membership opens the door to additional services, products and representation. Register as a business rather than as just an individual, if possible, so your employees can benefit from the membership.

I recommend: The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors provides a number of benefits to its members, including educational programs, networking opportunities and representation. The Material Handling Industry of America includes global opportunities and access to a trade, as well as business press database as part of their membership benefits package.

Take advantage of training opportunities provided by warehousing organizations

Progress stops for no one, and you need to advance as a professional by keeping your industry skills sharp and current. Take advantage of educational programs and tools to assist you and your employees in knowledge development and career advancement. Many organizations offer information on upcoming seminars, conferences, business development courses and other industry-related programs, in addition to industry certifications.

I recommend: The Distribution Business Management Association provides opportunities for industry success in their education program; this includes a specialist diploma and an award of excellence. The Warehousing Education and Research Council offers seminars, conference sessions and online courses as part of their educational program.

Find online warehouse associations that maintain active web forums

The forum on an industry organization's website can be a great source of support. Forums are a real-time communication opportunity. Any business with a question or concern can raise it in a forum and receive up-to-date responses from a variety of experts. Check to see that forum discussions have current activity before you join.

I recommend: The Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA) offers MHEDA-NET, an online networking service where members meet via conference call. The Warehousing Education and Research Council provides an online forum for discussing industry issues.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Networking is a great business tool. Make sure you;re stocked with business cards so you can market yourself and your company to your warehousing trade organization peers at your next event.