Third Party Logistics (3PL) – The Fastest Way to Grow Your Business

In the first of three blogs we will help you to explore the what, how and why of a 3PL.

First thing’s first. What exactly is a 3PL?

We are well placed to discuss this topic, as we are a 3PL. 3PL stands for third party logistics. 

Third-party logistics (or 3PL) refers to the outsourcing of e-commerce logistics processes, which includes inventory management, warehousing and fulfillment. 

This enables merchants to do more, by utilising innovative software and technology, enabling automation of order fulfillment. 

3PL’s are not a new concept and since the 1970’s businesses of all sizes have been outsourcing their logistics services to third parties. 

With the introduction and growth of e-commerce in the 90’s and 00’s, the term 3PL has become synonymous and 3PL’s have gone from strength to strength expanding their services, in order to support their customers and their changing needs. 

This has included the supply chain integration of warehousing operations and transportation services, which we now know as, third-party logistics.  

Back to basics 

At the most basic level, 3PLs offer logistics services to support certain aspects, and more typically all aspects of despatch operations. It is normal for 3PL providers to be integrated into a businesses warehousing and transportation procedures.  

Scale and Customise 

A 3PL can scale and customise services. 3PLs can meet your specific needs and partner with your business, by providing a single service for your supply chain or deliver a bundle of services, that extend across multiple aspects, of your supply chain. 

The beauty of this is that these services work with you to provide visibility to all aspects of your supply chain.

Contact us today to discuss how 3pluk can create value and enhance your operational, financial and customer experience. 

Next… how to get the best from your 3PL. 

Thinking outside of the box. It’s what 3pluk do.