Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
What logistics and fulfillment providers do drinks brands use, and how do they compare?
Members use a range of 3PL and storage providers, with significant variation in service quality and suitability depending on business needs. **Established providers mentioned:** - **LCB** — solid performer with 5+ years of loyalty from members; reliable but expensive; occasional peaks lead to service gaps; portal is clunky and not user-friendly; very few damages reported (5 broken bottles over 5 years); works best for businesses ahead on stock with simple customer bases, struggles with agility and flexibility - **LAW** — currently used by some but members report serious issues: poor comms, delivery mistakes, and stock damage; disputes ongoing - **MCF** — praised as "great"; unclear whether they handle alcohol - **EHD** — described as "really good" - **Diamond Logistics** — strong reputation; noted strengths include reliability; weakness: doesn't integrate with NOTHS system; some members have moved away due to DPD pricing concerns - **We Are Fulfilment** — members report being "very happy" with them - **ShipBob** — shortlisted in recent 3PL tender processes - **Vibe 65** — shortlisted in recent 3PL tender processes - **Huboo** — mentioned as a consideration but no direct experience shared **Key caveats:** LCB can be overwhelmed during peak periods; LAW has communication and handling issues; Diamond's lack of NOTHS integration may be a blocker for some; system integrations and pricing should be verified for your specific needs.
What are typical cold storage or warehouse storage costs per pallet per week in the Netherlands?
Members report storage costs in the Netherlands range from approximately **€2–4 per pallet per week**, with quotes clustering around **€2**, **€2.50–€3.00 GBP**, and **€4**. One member cited having this data "in front of me" to confirm the range. The variation likely reflects different facility types, locations, and service levels, so it's worth getting quotes from local Dutch logistics providers rather than relying on a single figure.
Which bonded warehouses do members recommend for startups, and how do their pricing and service compare?
Members consistently recommend a small number of bonded warehouse providers, with clear preferences based on service quality and pricing. **Key providers members recommend:** - **LAW** — Multiple members strongly prefer LAW over competitors. Stan (a named contact) is highlighted as excellent and responsive. Members report better service and pricing compared to LCB. One member has been with LAW for 7 years. Note: LAW may currently be capacity-constrained and unable to take on new clients. - **LCB** — Available option but members report higher case pricing compared to alternatives like LAW, making it a less competitive choice if cost is a primary concern. - **Europa** — Described as pretty reliable and responsive, though less detail provided on pricing or suitability for startups. **Pricing caveat:** Members note that "pricing is definitely apples and oranges" between providers, so direct quotes are essential. One member warned they're paying "case price which is crazy" with their current provider, suggesting you should negotiate terms carefully. **Service note:** The quality of account management appears variable. Stan at LAW is specifically praised for his knowledge and engagement, suggesting relationship quality matters as much as headline pricing. For scaling startups, members suggest getting direct quotes from LAW, Europa, and potentially LCB, but prioritise LAW as first choice based on this community's experience.
Which bonded warehouse and fulfilment services in the UK offer both storage and logistics at competitive rates?
Finding a provider that handles both bonded warehousing and fulfilment is challenging but possible. Members identified a small number of operators willing to take on both services: - **LAW Distribution** — offers e-fulfilment alongside bonded warehousing (lawdistribution.co.uk/e-fulfilment) - **London City Bond (LCB)** — members report using them for both bonded storage and fulfilment with good results, though noted they are expensive - **Rarter** — recommended by members as very good for this combination Members noted that combined bonded warehousing + fulfilment is a gap in the market; many providers handle one or the other, but not both. If you're looking for a service that integrates eCommerce support (consumer and trade sites), some providers in the community can help with that addition. Be prepared for higher costs with bonded operators, particularly with established names like LCB.
Where can drinks founders store pallets of empty bottles or small equipment inventory in the UK?
Members have found practical storage solutions for both pallets and compact inventory. **Vanguard Soho** is recommended for London-based founders needing flexible, rolling storage—they offer "phonebox-sized" spaces for small collapsible bars and other equipment, with larger options also available. One member mentioned using **a warehouse in Reading** for pallet storage of empty bottles, though location matters significantly depending on where you're based. For very compact storage needs, Vanguard Soho's smaller units have proven suitable for founders with minimal space requirements (around 2m in width). The key advantage of Vanguard is the rolling basis arrangement, which suits early-stage founders without long-term commitments. Members recommend checking location availability and contacting Vanguard directly to discuss your specific storage needs and volumes.