Working with a well-performing third-party logistics company (3PL) can help any business owner improve efficiency, keep costs down, and offer better customer service. Unfortunately, though, not all 3PLs are capable of providing industry-leading service. Read on to find out what to look for to choose a 3PL that will act as a valued partner.
Why Work With a 3PL?
Taking advantage of Managed Logistics Solutions allows business owners to outsource everything from inventory management and warehousing to shipping to a third-party company. The right 3PL partner will be able to help a business owner cut back on costs while simultaneously making it easier to grow the business.
Signs of a Good 3PL
Because not all 3PLs are created equal, it’s important to resist the temptation to make decisions based exclusively on the cost of services. Instead, look for the following signs of a good 3PL.
Robust Security
A good 3PL prioritizes the security of its client’s data and resources. The company will also offer safety training to its employees and ensure that everything is in compliance with industry regulations and standards. Look for 3PL partners that have relevant certifications such as certified transportation broker (CTB) certificates that prove their commitment to security.
Easy Scalability
Part of the reason that business owners outsource their logistics services to 3PLs is to accommodate a growing customer base. It only makes sense to expect that the company will continue to grow with the help of a reliable 3PL partner, so it’s vital to choose a logistics company that is able to scale up services as needed.
Excellent Customer Service
If they choose the right providers, business owners will be working with the same 3PLs for years to come. Knowing that a stellar customer service team will be available to answer questions and address concerns can create a much more enjoyable working relationship and avoid problems down the road.
Available Customization
Some businesses can run perfectly using the standard service packages offered by their 3PLs, but others need to customize their plans. Whether that means multi-channel capacity or LTL trucking services, business owners should reach out to the 3PL’s representatives to make sure those services are available. Some companies excel at providing core services in a specific niche, while others offer a wide array of customized options. Neither solution is objectively better. It’s a matter of figuring out what the company needs and making sure those requirements are met.
Positive Reputation
If a 3PL seems to meet all of a business owner’s current and potential future needs, it’s still worth doing some extra research into the company’s history and reputation. Find out how long the 3PL has been in business and look into its reputation within the industry before signing on the dotted line.
Get the Search Started
It can take some time to find the right 3PL. Small business owners should start the search for a managed logistics provider now to ensure that they’ll be ready to scale up as the business grows.