Distribution Center
Distribution Center (DC) is a warehouse that receives bulk inventory and redistributes it in cases or pallets to stores, wholesale customers, or fulfillment centers.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
Brands selling into retail ship to retailer DCs, which enforce strict routing guides and appointment windows.
Common questions
- Is a distribution center the same as a fulfillment center?
- Not exactly. A distribution center typically ships cases and pallets to stores or businesses, while a fulfillment center ships individual orders to consumers, though many sites now do both.
Cite this entry
"Distribution Center (DC)." Fulfillment Lexicon, last reviewed October 16, 2026. https://fulfillment.wiki/glossary/distribution-center/