What is a 3PL Company? Tips to Select the Best 3PL
FAQs
What is a 3PL?
A third-party logistics (3PL) provider is a company that handles shipping, warehousing, fulfillment, and other logistics services for businesses selling products online or offline.
What services do 3PLs provide?
Typical services offered by 3PLs include: warehousing, order fulfillment, returns processing, inventory management, transportation, freight shipping, and more.
What are the benefits of using a 3PL?
Key benefits of using a 3PL partner include: cost savings, flexibility to scale up or down, specialized expertise in logistics, expanded global infrastructure and shipping reach.
How to choose the right 3PL for my business?
Important criteria when selecting a 3PL provider include: services offered, locations served, technical capabilities, industry experience, cost structure, and quality of customer service.
Can a 3PL handle global order fulfillment?
Yes, many 3PLs have an established worldwide infrastructure that allows them to handle global order fulfillment, including customs clearance, duties and taxes, and international shipping.
Do I need to have my own warehouse when using a 3PL?
No, one of the benefits of using a 3PL is they provide warehousing services so you do not have to lease your own warehouse space and manage inventory storage.
Can a 3PL integrate with my ecommerce platform?
Many 3PLs provide advanced technical integration between their order management system and major ecommerce platforms like Shopify, Magento and BigCommerce.
