When it comes to operations and logistics, Alabama knows how to leave a lasting impression on companies looking for the perfect place to do business. For eight years in a row, we’ve ranked among the top states for doing business, thanks to low labor costs and workforce development initiatives. And thanks to the state’s location and infrastructure, it’s a prime hub for distribution and transportation logistics. By establishing headquarters here, corporations like Regions Financial, Encompass Health, Adtran and Vulcan Materials have lowered their overall cost of doing business.

Half

U.S. population within 1 day drive

2.6k

miles of Class I

railroad track

19

U.S. highways
totaling 3,853 miles

No. 6

2022 Area Development’s

‘Top States for Doing Business’

Operations

When companies want to grow and thrive, Alabama offers 
the prime environment for scaling with low operational costs, 
11 Metropolitan Statistical Areas, and a high quality of life throughout the state. By establishing headquarters here, corporations like Regions Financial, Encompass Health, Adtran and Vulcan Materials have lowered their overall cost of doing business.

Distribution & Logistics

By land, air, or sea, Alabama is a prime hub for distribution and transportation logistics. With six interstate highways, five Class I railways, and the busy Port of Mobile, the state has the infrastructure you need to get where you need to go. Throw in the fact that Alabama has no inventory tax, and your expectations for product distribution will take off.

Infrastructure

Alabama’s prime location in the South and on the Gulf Coast grants it nearly unlimited access to the national and international markets. At the center of the fastest growing region within the U.S., Alabama sits within a one day drive to all of the South and its 125 million-plus residents.

Availability at this scale has paved the way to some pretty astounding international trade achievements. Alabama is the home to over 425 foreign-based companies from more than 30 nations and exported goods to 190 countries in 2023— racking up $27.4 billion in exports despite an unsteady global market.

Amazon
Target
Walmart
FedEx
Lowe‘s
Regions
Encompass Health
Adtran
Vulcan Materials Company
BBVA Compass
Dollar General

Where major corporations grow.

The Birmingham skyline at dusk.

Latest Operations & Logistics News

Alabama logistics

Infrastructure

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — Total Quality Logistics (TQL), the second-largest freight brokerage in North America, announced plans today to expand its presence — and its workforce — in Alabama with a new office in Huntsville.

Why Alabama for Operations & Logistics?

Why Alabama?

Alabama is a state of makers, builders, and doers. So, whatever you make or build, you can do it in Alabama. We’re a launching point for aerospace, aviation, and defense. A leader in automotive production. A home for startups, technology, and research breakthroughs. And drawing on our manufacturing roots, we’re helping to usher in the industrial evolution in America.


Alabama’s prime location in the South and on the Gulf Coast grants it nearly unlimited access to the national and international markets. Alabama sits within a one day drive to all of the South and its nearly 150M residents.

Alabama’s strong workforce is a major attraction for businesses worldwide, driven by our commitment to skill development. Industry leaders like Mercedes-Benz and Airbus have benefited from on-site training programs in partnership with state workforce agencies; and our state’s focus on education and industrial training through colleges further strengthens Alabama’s appeal to businesses.


Alabama’s business approach is very inviting, offering global companies incentives, tax benefits, a skilled workforce, and excellent real estate options. Low taxes, affordable utilities, and a reasonable cost of living boost profits, and the state ensure ideal site locations and attractive incentives for long-term success in Alabama.

Alabama’s Business Development Division actively seeks corporate investors, promotes global expansion for local companies, supports small businesses, and collaborates with various stakeholders for comprehensive investor support. The state also engages with communities to enhance competitiveness and contribute significantly to Alabama’s economic growth strategy, making the state attractive to investors, businesses, and job seekers.