I am currently at the least sexy point of a home renovation project. We’ve passed the one-dimensional phase of architectural drawings and mood boards, and reality has taken over. Albeit paramount to our success, things like inspections, remediations, permits and engineering consults are a bit of a buzz kill. And it will surprise no one who knows me, that I am ready to get to the pretty part! Of course, my brain knows this is how the sausage gets made, but my heart is pining to choose artwork, mix paint colors and tinker with light fixtures.
For better or worse, this process is teaching me patience and a deep appreciation for the laser focus required by our architect and contractor. And just as I started settling into this wisdom, a flash of interior design excitement came my way! Contrary to my naive assumption, my interior designer pointed out that interior purchases are done well ahead of project completion (a fact I missed during reno-orientation). And just like that, I am back in the fun!
Reenergized, I scour 1stdibs and local antique stores. But it doesn’t take long for those unsexy realities to pop up again. What about the shipping, storage and logistics of these new, fun things? We’ve all heard about nightmare delivery situations; long pined for items stranded in the middle of the ocean with no estimated arrival date in sight. What if our new couch arrives next week, but the refrigerator takes four months? Yikes, now I am reeling with logistical worry!
Seizing on this exact predicament, interior designer Chad Graci and partner, photographer Collin Magee, conceived of Crescent City Receiving and Logistics. After navigating such highs and lows for clients over the past 20 years they say, “We decided there must be a better way. There was just not a place that checked all of the boxes.” Thus, they have set out to service designers, contractors and collectors alike with trustworthy receiving, white–glove handling & delivery, and quality storage.
One way they aim to distinguish themselves from the competition is by better communication. Magee adds, “Most receivers are not educated on the nuances of delicate items and they are notoriously frustrating to communicate with.” Graci points out that because he too is in the design business, it’s easier to anticipate customer needs. “We are grappling with the same issues as our clients,” he says. With this in mind, Crescent City will train its employees to understand both the logistics and value of caring for precious things. Graci adds, “Often our competitors don’t understand what they’re receiving, which greatly increases the likelihood of miscommunication. They tend to overlook signs of damage upon delivery.” Because wholesalers and designers typically have a brief window to report issues or return products, any delays in identifying mistakes can make resolving them much more difficult.
Another way Crescent City Receiving and Logistics plans to improve communication is with its tailored software. Magee says, “We had our own software designed to help seamlessly track delivery, inspection, documentation and cataloging items.” Incoming merchandise will report detailed condition at inspection and will be photographed for inventory records. The best part is that because it is their custom software, changes based on client feedback can be easily implemented.
Storage is also an important part of their full suite of services. Graci says, “We are excited to offer warehouse space in the Jefferson Design District.” The location is centrally located, convenient to uptown, and Metairie clients, and it also works for their growing number of clients on the Northshore and Mississippi.
When I ask about their hopes for the future, they first express gratitude for everything they have accomplished so far. “Our friends and fellow designers have supported this endeavor and helped us get off the ground,” they say. Now with a solid foundation beneath them, they aspire to be the go-to service provider in the New Orleans area and look forward to the day they need a larger warehouse to accommodate their growing customer base.
To connect, call 504-264-7676 or visit https://ccrlnola.com/
Sale & Event Picks:
Through Saturday (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.): Hart Custom Jewelry Pop Up, Febe
July 24 (12 p.m. – 5 p.m.): RMS Beauty Free Make Over event plus 20% off makeup, Earthsavers (book here)
July 25 (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.) – July 26 (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.): Estate Sale 5919 Prytania St. H&H Estate Sales
