In today’s business world, good logistic and supply chain management has become an important factor for organizations that want to excel. This is where Third Party Logistics (3PL) providers fit the bill perfectly. 3PL management subsumes almost every logistics solution including warehousing, inventory handling, transportation etc. These operations are outsourced to allow business organizations to concentrate on their core functions, with the knowledge that the logistics of their business are in capable hands.
What is 3PL Management?
These companies act as an extension of a business’s logistics team, offering services such as:
- Warehousing and Storage: 3PL providers oversee the stock in the central facility, which is a crucial factor, as it is necessary to distribute inventory across the space most effectively and provide accessibility for products.
- Order Fulfillment: They take responsibility for order dispatch, where they pick up products ordered, pack them and ensure they are delivered on time.
- Transportation Management: 3PL companies take care of the transport of the products, whether it be within the same region or across borders. They may already have Carrier relationships in place, which leads to affordable and efficient deliveries.
- Inventory Management: With the help of sophisticated technology and integrated systems, 3PLs are capable of providing accurate data on inventory levels to help minimize the likelihood of stockouts or excess inventory.
Key Advantages of Outsourcing to 3PL Providers
- Cost Efficiency: Third Party Logistics providers can deliver their logistics services at a cheaper price than if it was done in-house, due to factors such as economies of scale. Organizations cut costs such as those that are incurred on warehousing, staffing and transportation among others.
- Scalability: These include peak demand seasons, an extension of the business into new markets, where 3PL suppliers provide the extra associated with scaling up and downsizing.
- Expertise and Technology: 3PL companies use advanced technology and hire professionals in logistics to optimize the supply chain. They know the current trends in industries as well as the laws regulating them; smoothening operations for any company experiencing complications.