Why Outsourcing Your Logistics to a 3PL Provider Makes Good Business Sense

The logistics industry is in a state of constant change, as new obstacles and possibilities present themselves regularly. In today’s cutthroat commercial environment, it is essential to stay ahead of the curve and manage expenses effectively. That’s where the need for a reliable third-party logistics (3PL) partner arises.

With the massive adoption of 3PL services, the boom of this industry isn’t surprising. According to Market Research Future, the Third-Party Logistics Market was worth $1022.8 billion in 2021. It is forecasted to grow from $1111.78 Billion in 2022 to $1993.54 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.70% between 2022 and 2030.

These figures underscore the growing importance of 3PL providers for today’s businesses. As the logistics industry continues to expand, more and more companies are turning to 3PL partners to help them manage supply chain operations.

By outsourcing their logistics to a reputable 3PL provider, businesses can enjoy a wide range of benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top reasons why outsourcing your logistics to a 3PL provider makes good business sense.

Increased Efficiency and Cost Savings

Outsourcing your logistics to a 3PL provider can help you achieve increased efficiency and cost savings. Companies that outsource their logistics operations to 3PL providers report significant cost savings.

Outsourcing to a 3PL provider can also help businesses achieve greater efficiency. 3PL providers specialize in logistics management and have the knowledge, skills, and technology to handle complex logistics operations.

One of the key factors that contribute to increased efficiency and cost savings when outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider is economies of scale. 3PL providers handle logistics operations for multiple clients, which allows them to negotiate better rates with carriers, suppliers, and other service providers. This translates into lower transportation costs, reduced inventory costs, and better overall supply chain management.

Another way that outsourcing to a 3PL provider can increase efficiency and cost savings is through improved visibility and control over the supply chain. 3PL providers use advanced technologies such as transportation management systems (TMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and real-time tracking to provide businesses with greater visibility and control over their supply chain operations.

These technologies allow businesses to make more informed decisions, respond quickly to changes in demand or supply, and optimize their logistics processes for maximum efficiency and cost savings.

Access to Expertise and Technology

Access to expertise and technology is another significant benefit of outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider. In a recent survey, nearly 58% of shippers indicated they are satisfied with their 3PLs’ IT capabilities, which highlights that these providers have the necessary technology and expertise to manage and optimize supply chain processes.

Collaborating with a 3PL provider will help you gain access to its expertise and experience. 3PL providers specialize in logistics management and have the knowledge, skills, and experience to handle complex logistics operations.

One of the key advantages of outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider is access to a global network of carriers and suppliers. 3PL providers have established relationships with carriers and suppliers around the world, which allows them to negotiate better rates and provide more efficient transportation and distribution services.

According to a new study, there is an increasing reliance on advanced technologies like 5G in logistics operations. Approximately 52% of shippers and 63% of 3PLs consider 5G technology to be important. The use of real-time data made possible by 5G technology can give 3PLs a competitive edge by improving visibility and exception management.

To capitalize on this benefit, numerous logistics providers are putting resources into 5G technology. Nearly 53% of 3PLs are capable of delivering real-time data to their customers for at least 50% of their supply chain services, and 23% can do so for between a quarter to half of their services.

By outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider, companies gain access to the latest technology and expertise without investing in expensive equipment or training programs.

Scalability and Flexibility

One of the key benefits of outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider is the ability to scale up or down as per the changing needs of your business. With a 3PL provider, you can easily adapt to seasonal fluctuations, unexpected demand spikes, or changes in product lines without having to worry about investing in additional resources or infrastructure.

Moreover, a good 3PL provider can offer you flexibility in terms of services and delivery options. For example, if you need same-day or next-day delivery for your products, a 3PL provider can offer you such services to meet your customers’ expectations.

Moreover, leveraging a 3PL provider can facilitate your business expansion into unexplored markets. A 3PL provider with a global network can help you enter new markets by providing you with the necessary expertise, infrastructure, and local knowledge.

Choosing the right 3PL logistics provider is critical to achieving the benefits of scalability and flexibility. Reading online reviews and getting referrals can help you find a reliable and trustworthy partner for your logistics needs.

As Steve Mariucci, COO of ISLE Surf & SUP, discovered that choosing the right provider can make all the difference. He partnered with Red Stag Fulfillment and found their cutting-edge technologies and streamlined processes allowed ISLE Surf & SUP to focus on their core business while leaving the logistics to the experts.

Strengthen Sustainability Efforts

Outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider can also help businesses strengthen their sustainability efforts. Many 3PL providers have established sustainable practices and technologies in place, which can significantly reduce a company’s carbon footprint.

3PL providers have access to a vast network of carriers, warehouses, and distribution centers, which can help companies reduce their overall transportation costs and carbon emissions. By partnering with a 3PL provider, companies can take advantage of the provider’s experience and expertise to optimize their supply chain and reduce their environmental impact.

Outsourcing logistics to a 3PL provider can help businesses meet their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals. Many companies now have ESG programs in place, and collaborating with a 3PL provider can help them achieve their sustainability targets. 3PL providers can offer insights, technologies, and strategies to help companies reduce their environmental impact and increase their social responsibility.

As per a recent survey, 59% of shippers stated that their company had a structured Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) program with distinct objectives and aims. Meanwhile, 51% of shippers mentioned that their supply chain has an ESG program with clearly defined objectives and goals. In contrast, around 45% of 3PL providers reported having an established ESG program.

Connecting with a 3PL provider that prioritizes sustainability can help businesses meet their ESG goals and promote a more sustainable supply chain.

Wrapping Up

Outsourcing your logistics to a 3PL provider can be an excellent decision for your business. By leveraging the expertise and resources of a dedicated logistics partner, you can streamline your operations, reduce costs, and enhance your overall supply chain performance.

Whether you need help with transportation, warehousing, inventory management, or other logistics functions, a 3PL provider can provide you with tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.