Racklify Talks Beverage Fulfillment with Nimbl Fulfillment at Manifest 2025

Meeting of Minds at Manifest 2025

At Manifest 2025, Racklify’s Bill Carlin sat down with Sterling Westfall, Director of Operations at Nimbl Fulfillment, to discuss the complex world of beverage fulfillment. The conversation shed light on the unique logistics challenges that beverage brands face, particularly when shipping directly to consumers (D2C) or fulfilling orders for major retailers.

Why Beverage Fulfillment Is Challenging

Beverage fulfillment presents significant challenges primarily due to the weight of the products. Sterling noted that individual beverage shipments can be surprisingly heavy, which increases transportation costs and adds complexity to warehouse operations. "You’re dealing with heavy products that can be difficult to move efficiently," Sterling explained. "Without the right equipment, like powered pallet jacks, handling these shipments becomes not only challenging but potentially unsafe."

The weight factor also affects how products are stored and picked. Manual handling is not practical, which makes proper equipment and warehouse layout essential for efficiency and safety.

Another layer of complexity comes from expiration date management. Sterling emphasized the importance of a robust warehouse management system (WMS) to track product lifecycles and prevent expired products from reaching consumers. “You need strong warehouse management to stay ahead of expiration dates,” he said. “Keeping track ensures compliance and reduces product waste.”

Optimizing Storage and Preventing Damage

Handling heavy beverages also increases the risk of product damage during storage and transportation. Sterling highlighted that careful handling and proper storage solutions are crucial. Nimbl Fulfillment uses high-density racking systems that not only maximize warehouse capacity but also help prevent damage by securely storing heavy products.

About Nimbl Fulfillment

Nimbl Fulfillment provides comprehensive logistics solutions tailored to various industries, with a notable focus on beverage fulfillment. The company also handles hydration stick packs, soft goods like t-shirts and pants, and a range of other retail products. Nimbl works with major retailers, including Target, Walmart, and Costco, ensuring that shipments meet complex retail compliance requirements.

“Our focus is on making fulfillment as seamless as possible for our clients,” Sterling said. “We handle the nuances of labeling, inventory management, and shipping so brands can concentrate on scaling their business.”

Why This Matters to E-commerce and Retail Brands

New e-commerce brands often underestimate the logistics involved in beverage fulfillment. From the challenges posed by heavy products to the need for precise inventory tracking, beverage logistics requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Sterling’s insights highlight how working with experienced partners like Nimbl Fulfillment can help brands navigate these complexities and optimize their supply chain operations.