A warehouse is a planned storage area for products, materials, and equipment. It is usually an ample, unobstructed space with a high ceiling that stock can be moved around easily. Businesses that need to store large amounts of inventory, such as manufacturers, retailers, and distributors, use warehouses. They are usually located near transportation hubs so that goods can be quickly shipped in and out. Some warehouses are also used for other purposes, such as assembly or packaging. Proper planning is essential for a successful warehouse operation as it can help improve efficiency and reduce costs.