Finding the Right 3PL Partner Delivers Key Benefits
Q: How important is it to find a good 3PL in today’s transportation marketplace?
A: Today, finding a good 3PL company to partner with is more important than ever. Supply chains have been dramatically impacted by the pandemic and businesses need a partner who is both nimble enough to make the proper adjustments on the fly, and experienced enough to offer the best solutions during the most challenging situations.
The right 3PL partner will help you save money and achieve greater flexibility by leveraging better economies of scale, offering access to established carrier relationships, and supplying knowledge of the industry provided by 3PLs.
You can also take advantage of better customer service by establishing a relationship with your 3PL for all of your shipping needs. And if the 3PL operates through a nationwide agent station model, like we do at DLS Worldwide, you will find a partner who is familiar with key vendors as well as who can make things happen when needed in local markets.
All these qualities combine to make a 3PL partner your best asset when shipping is at its most difficult.
Q: What should you look for when choosing a 3PL?
A: One thing you should consider is the breadth of offerings they provide. Can they handle any mode, any size, or type of shipment?
Another consideration is technology. Do they offer robust technology that easily integrates with your existing systems? Is their system easy to use, offer cradle-to-grave capabilities, and offer full visibility of your order throughout the process?
You should also seek a provider that is established and maintains a strong network of locations. Having a local office that is more in tune with regional trends and key local vendors can be more advantageous than dealing with a mega-call center platform.
Does the 3PL have a proven history? Do they have vast experience as a shipper and a logistics provider? Do they have offices and/or stations in numerous areas to help meet your shipping needs? Most importantly, will they be more than a simple service provider?
When you find a 3PL that can be a true partner to you, that helps you to weather the storm, takes the time to understand your needs, and is flexible enough to keep up with changes including with your vendors, the choice is simple.
DLS Worldwide optimizes your distribution and controls your costs through our spectrum of integrated services, unique sources of capacity, and global, technology-based delivery network.
Rely on DLS Worldwide for:
- Domestic LTL & Truckload
- International Air, LCL, and FCL
- Expedited Air or Ground with Same-Day, Next-Day, or Two-Day Options
- White-glove solutions including install & unpack, liftgate delivery, and more