Best Bonded Warehouses in California
Introduction
When it comes to international shipping and logistics, finding the right warehouse solution can make or break your supply chain. For businesses importing goods into the United States, bonded warehouses offer a valuable option that can save money, reduce risk, and streamline customs processes. California, with its busy ports and high volume of international trade, is home to some of the most reputable bonded warehouses in the country. In this article, we’ll cover what bonded warehouses are, why they matter, and who the best providers are in the Golden State.
What Is a Bonded Warehouse and Why Use One?
A bonded warehouse is a secure facility where imported goods can be stored without immediately paying customs duties. These warehouses operate under the supervision of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and are ideal for businesses that import large quantities of goods or need to hold inventory before distribution.
Benefits of Bonded Warehouses
- Deferred Duty Payments: Duties and taxes are only paid when bonded goods leave the warehouse, which can significantly improve cash flow.
- Customs Compliance: Bonded warehouses help streamline the customs process and reduce the risk of non-compliance.
- Improved Inventory Control: Many bonded warehouses offer advanced inventory systems and tracking.
Long Term Storage: Goods can typically be stored for up to five years.
Industries That Rely on Bonded Warehouses
- Alcohol and spirits importers
- Automotive and aerospace companies
- Apparel and fashion brands
- Electronics and tech companies
- International eCommerce businesses
What to Look for in the Best Bonded Warehouses
Not all bonded warehouses are created equal. Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing the right one for your business:
1. Licensing, Certifications, and Security
Always confirm that the warehouse is properly licensed by CBP. Look for facilities with strong security protocols, including surveillance, controlled access, and 24/7 monitoring.
2. Specialized Storage Options
Depending on your inventory, you may need temperature-controlled environments, secure storage, or large-item racking. Make sure the warehouse can meet your specific storage needs.
3. Inventory Visibility
The best bonded warehouses offer real-time inventory tracking, API integrations, and cloud-based platforms that help you stay on top of your supply chain management strategy.
4. Strategic Location
Choose a customs-bonded warehouse near major ports, airports, or intermodal transport hubs. This minimizes transportation time and costs.
Top-Rated Bonded Warehouses in California
Here are some of the top customs bonded warehouse providers across California, known for their reputation, reliability, and range of services:
1. Unis (Buena Park)
Unis offers bonded storage and fulfillment with a focus on technology-driven logistics and fast, accurate distribution across Southern California and beyond.
Services: Bonded storage, order fulfillment, warehousing, distribution
2. Lynx Logistics (Los Angeles)
Lynx Logistics offers bonded storage, freight forwarding, and customs brokerage services from a facility near the Port of LA—ideal for international shippers.
Services: Bonded storage, customs clearance, inventory management, fulfillment
3. Howard Hartry (San Pedro)
A long-standing name in Southern California logistics, Howard Hartry specializes in freight handling and bonded warehousing for a variety of imported, stored goods.
Services: Bonded storage, cross-docking, drayage, port logistics
4. CASAS International (San Diego)
Serving businesses along the U.S.-Mexico border, CASAS International runs one of San Diego’s most advanced bonded warehouses with customs support and freight services.
Services: Customs brokerage, bonded storage, freight forwarding, compliance support
5. American Spirits Exchange (Northern California)
Focused on alcohol and beverage imports, American Spirits Exchange provides bonded storage tailored for wine, beer, and spirits, along with compliance expertise.
Services: Bonded alcohol storage, labeling, distribution, and regulatory compliance
6. Ship World Inc (City of Industry)
Ship World specializes in bonded storage and fulfillment for high-volume eCommerce brands, offering flexible, scalable storage and shipping solutions.
Services: Bonded storage, pick-and-pack, order fulfillment, shipping
7. Price Transfer (Long Beach)
Minutes from the Port of Long Beach, Price Transfer is a trusted name in bonded warehousing with strong compliance capabilities and responsive service.
Services: Bonded storage, container drayage, compliance, inventory control
Tips for Choosing the Right Partner
- Evaluate the warehouse’s proximity to your ports of entry.
- Consider your product type and any special handling needs.
- Ask about technology integrations for inventory and order tracking.
- Make sure they can grow with you as your business scales.
Conclusion
If your business relies on importing goods into California, choosing the right bonded warehouse can improve compliance, lower costs, and streamline your operations. Whether you’re handling wine, electronics, or apparel, the providers listed above offer reliable and secure options for businesses of all sizes.
At Slotted, we help connect growing eCommerce and CPG brands with the best 3PLs and warehouse providers. Ready to find the right bonded warehouse for your needs?
Get connected with a bonded warehouse today to explore your options and optimize your supply chain operations.
