The future of a business depends on the customers’ satisfaction. Especially in the world of e-commerce, where you need to sell your products to get revenue. But, the road from a business to the end customer is long and there are stages to it. As the market becomes more complex and saturated, you need to have a reliable 3pl provider. Let’s focus on the vital roles 3pl have in the supply chain and logistics.
First – what is 3PL?
If your business has a specific supply chain, you may be familiar with the concept of 3PL. But, if you are looking to outsource it, then you need to know more. In a nutshell, a 3PL can handle the entire supply chain for you. From storage, order processing, every step of order fulfilment, shipping and receiving, #PL covers it all. Not only will you cover all of the stages of a supply chain, but you’ll also get expertise. 3PL companies know how to streamline operations and focus on their core activities. In turn, you’ll handle other aspects of your business.
How can a 3PL benefit your business?
While some businesses have a logistics sector within their company, some decide to outsource to an external partner. That’s exactly how you should view this type of service as your partner. A 3PL of your choice can help you in all of the following ways we’ll discuss below.
It’s a cost-efficient decision
Cost efficiency is at the beginning of every discussion about the benefits of using 3PL services. Simply put, you won’t have to think about any element of logistics or supply chain management, tools, or people.
That’s specifically what a 3PL will do for you: use their network and expertise to help you reduce your costs. They will achieve better rates with carriers, optimise routes, and consolidate shipments. You need skill and expertise to achieve any of this. It’s also important to scale your business at some point, and 3PL can have a significant impact.
Cost-effective transportation solutions
The transportation industry has suffered over the past few years because of fluctuations in gas prices. This has affected the entire industry, so knowing how to manage transportation in a crisis is an indispensable skill. If you need services of national freight carriers to handle your transportation needs, a 3PL is a great choice. Their services include transportation management, carrier selection, route optimisation, and freight consolidation. It’s all about ensuring timely delivery, reducing shipping costs and having a happy customer.
Many experts in one place
When you are considering the services of a 3PL, you’re doing more than just outsourcing. You’re also investing in your company’s future because you’ll have many experts on your side. You will outsource your supply chain management to many experts in the industry. They stay updated with the latest industry trends, regulations, and best practices, ensuring their clients benefit from the most efficient logistics solutions. You’ll be more confident that any issue with the supply chain management is just a challenge for a 3PL. One they will overcome with greater ease and confidence.
They put customer satisfaction at the forefront
We’ve all been impatient at some point in our lives while waiting for a package to arrive. Every business has a disclaimer on the prescribed delivery times. Everything that’s within the defined timeframe is worth the wait. But, there are times when packages are delayed. While it can happen, some customers won’t be as appreciative of the delay. A 3PL can improve customer satisfaction rate by ensuring timely and accurate delivery. It’s all about having reliable partners and a network of carriers with a proven track record, and 3PL can provide that.
Better growth and possibilities
Outsourcing to a partner like a 3PL is a strategic decision. On the one hand, you will get access to a team of professionals who will help scale your business and services. Conversely, you will have more room to focus on your business’s core competencies. Logistics and supply chain management require attention, skills, expertise, and constant effort. By outsourcing to a 3PL, you can focus on other business areas. This strategic focus can lead to improved business performance and growth.
In conclusion, having a 3PL by your side may be the best strategic decision in the long run. Your job is to choose the right one and enhance your business with a simple strategic decision.
