What is a 3PL Provider? Ins and Outs of Third-Party Logistics Providers

Luis Lopez

A 3PL provider meaning a company that offers outsourced logistics services to other businesses. This can include anything from warehousing and fulfillment to transportation and delivery. 3PL providers can be a great option for businesses that need assistance with logistics but don’t have the staff or resources to do everything themselves. This article will discuss the ins and outs of working with a 3PL provider, including tips for finding the right one and ensuring that your relationship is successful.

5 Types of 3pl Logistics Providers

When it comes to 3PL service providers, there are many different options available. Some of the most common types include: 

1. Warehouse and fulfillment services. 

This type of 3PL logistic provider can help businesses with all aspects of warehousing and order fulfillment, including handling inventory management, picking and packing orders, shipping, and returns processing. 

2. Transportation and delivery services. 

These are types of 3pl providers that can help businesses with all aspects of transportation and delivery, including managing trucking routes and schedules, coordinating shipments with carriers, tracking deliveries in real-time, managing carrier invoices and payments, and handling claims management. 

3. Integrated logistics services. 

Many types of 3PL providers offer a combination of warehouse, transportation, and delivery services. This can be a great option for businesses that need assistance with all aspects of their logistics operations. 

4. Customized logistics services. 

Some 3PL providers offer customized solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of their clients. This can be a great option for businesses that have unique logistics needs or want to outsource specific processes. 

5. Specialized logistics services. 

A number of 3PL providers specialize in certain types of logistics services, such as temperature-controlled warehousing, hazardous materials shipping, pharmaceutical, and healthcare delivery, or food and beverage distribution. Depending on your business needs and niche market, you may want to consider working with a specialized 3PL provider. 

3PL Providers in the USA

Below is a list of six highly recommended 3PL providers in the USA:

1. DHL Supply Chain 

DHL Supply Chain is one of the leading third-party logistics (3PL) providers in the United States. Headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, the company operates more than 50 facilities across the country and employs over 15,000 people. DHL Supply Chain provides a comprehensive range of supply chain management services, including transportation, warehousing, and value-added services such as packaging and assembly. 

The company also offers e-commerce fulfillment and reverse logistics solutions. In addition to its North American operations, DHL Supply Chain has a global network of over 1,000 warehouses in more than 50 countries. As a result, the company is well-positioned to meet the logistical needs of businesses of all sizes. 

2. CEVA Logistics 

CEVA Logistics is a global 3PL provider that offers a full range of logistics and supply chain services in over 170 countries. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, the company has more than 30 offices throughout the United States and employs nearly 2,000 people across North America. 

CEVA partners with businesses in numerous industries, including automotive, retail, e-commerce, food and beverage, healthcare, technology, and electronics. The company’s services include inbound logistics, warehousing and distribution management, order fulfillment and aftermarket support, global sourcing, customs brokerage and consulting as well as transportation. 

3. XPO Logistics 

XPO Logistics is one of the largest third-party logistics (3PL) providers in North America. The company provides a wide range of supply chain services, including freight brokerage, transportation management, intermodal services and drayage, last-mile delivery and final mile logistics, global expedition and trade management solutions, customs brokerage, and warehousing and distribution. 

Based in Greenwich, Connecticut, XPO Logistics operates over 108 million square feet of warehouse space and has over 100 offices across North America. The company has a strong reputation for providing high-quality services to businesses of all sizes and is frequently recognized as one of the top logistics providers in the industry. 

4. Kuehne + Nagel 

Kuehne + Nagel is one of the largest third-party logistics (3PL) services providers in North America. Headquartered in Fort Mill, South Carolina, the company operates a global network that includes more than 1,100 offices and employs over 62,000 people. 

In addition to its North American operations, Kuehne + Nagel has a strong presence in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America. The company offers a comprehensive range of logistics services, including transportation management, warehousing and distribution, airfreight and ocean freight forwarding, contract logistics, intermodal services, and value-added services. 

5. Nippon Express USA 

Nippon Express USA is a leading provider of third-party logistics (3PL) services in the United States. The company offers a complete range of logistics solutions, including transportation management, warehousing and distribution, airfreight and ocean freight forwarding, contract logistics, intermodal services, and value-added services. 

With a network of over 40 offices throughout North America, Nippon Express USA is well-positioned to meet the logistical needs of businesses of all sizes. In addition to its extensive domestic operations, the company has a strong presence in Asia and other countries around the world. 

6. Go Freight Hub 

Go Freight Hub is one of the leading providers of third-party logistics (3PL) services in the United States. They are known for providing comprehensive solutions to support businesses throughout various stages of growth. 

Whether you are just starting or needing more advanced management support, Go Freight Hub can help with everything from warehousing, transportation, and management consulting to e-commerce fulfillment and much more. 

With a team of highly skilled professionals who understand all aspects of shipping and logistics, Go Freight Hub can help your business reach new levels of success through optimal efficiency and cost reduction. 

If you’re looking for an experienced 3PL provider that can help you manage your supply chain, these six companies are a good place to start. Each company has a proven track record of providing high-quality services to businesses of all sizes. 

How to Choose A 3PL Provider

When deciding how to choose your 3pl provider, there are several factors you will need to consider. Some of the most important considerations include cost, location, and industry experience. One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a 3PL provider is cost. Typically, 3PL providers charge a percentage of the total cost of the shipment. The exact percentage will vary depending on the provider and the type of service you’re looking for. Another important factor to consider is location. If you’re shipping internationally, you’ll need to choose a 3PL provider that has a strong presence in the countries you’re shipping to and from. This will ensure that your goods are delivered quickly and efficiently. Finally, you should consider the industry experience of a potential 3PL provider. Many providers have extensive experience working with businesses in specific industries, such as e-commerce or retail. If your business operates in a similar industry, it may be beneficial to work with a provider that has experience dealing with the unique challenges that come with your industry. 

Questions to Ask 3PL Providers

When interviewing potential third-party logistics (3PL) providers, there are a number of questions to ask the logistics provider. Some of the most important questions include: 

1. What type of services do you offer? Can you provide transportation management, warehousing, and distribution, airfreight and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, or other value-added services? 
2. What are your rates? What is the cost of your services? 
3. Do you have experience working with businesses in my industry? 
4. Can you provide references from other companies that you’ve worked with? 
5. What is your delivery time? How long will it take for my goods to be delivered? 
6. How will you ensure the safety and security of my goods during transit? 
7. What measures do you take to minimize delays or other issues during transport? 
8. How will you communicate with me throughout the shipping process? Will I have a dedicated account manager, or will I need to contact different people for different services? 
9. Do you offer any value-added services, such as freight consolidation or inventory management? If so, can you provide details on these services? 
10. How will your performance be measured and evaluated? How often will we meet to discuss our shipping needs and to assess the success of our partnership? 

These are just a few of the questions you should ask when interviewing potential 3PL providers. By asking these questions, you can get a better understanding of the services each provider offers and how they would benefit your business. 

Benefits Of 3PL Provider

There are several benefits to working with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider. Some of the key advantages of 3pl providers include improved efficiency and reduced costs. 

By outsourcing your logistics operations to a 3PL provider, you can streamline your supply chain and improve efficiency. This will help reduce the time it takes for your goods to be delivered, as well as the cost of shipping and storage. 

In addition to improved efficiency, a 3PL provider can help you reduce costs in other areas, such as warehousing. Many providers have established relationships with warehouses and distribution centers across the country, which allows them to offer more competitive rates on storage space. 

Another benefit of working with a 3PL provider is access to their network of transportation providers. This network can help you find the most efficient and cost-effective shipping options for your goods. 

Finally, working with a 3PL provider gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing your logistics are being handled by experts. This can free up your time and resources so that you can focus on growing your business.

How to Contact A 3PL Provider!

If you are considering working with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, there are many providers to choose from. When evaluating potential 3PL providers, be sure to consider their experience and industry knowledge, as well as their rates and services. 

To get started, simply search online for “3PL providers” or “third-party logistics providers” to find a list of providers in your area. Once you have selected a few potential 3PL providers, be sure to reach out and request a quote or schedule an interview to discuss your needs in more detail. 

If you are looking for a reliable and experienced 3PL provider, we would highly recommend contacting Go Freight Hub. They are a leading third-party logistics services provider and have a proven track record of helping businesses streamline their supply chains.