THE 5 NOT-SO-HIDDEN SECRETS BEHIND A SUCCESSFUL 3PL PARTNERSHIP

By definition, third party logistics is when a company outsources all or much of their logistics operations to a specialized company to handle the transportation of their goods and services. For many companies, outsourcing logistics and freight needs seems like a simple, intuitive process. Yet in order to have a beneficial relationship with a 3PL, companies must find the right 3PL, one that has mastered these five traits. These traits seem simple in theory, but are difficult to perfect in reality. When partnering with a 3PL look for:

1. A Strong & Implemented Mission

A company that is committed to their mission statement means they’ll use it as their guiding principle for all business interactions. As a 3PL they are responsible for carrying your product, and essentially, the backbone of your business. Partnering with a 3PL who’s values align with your company’s will safeguard your promise to your customers. Ensuring you have shared vision and goals helps create a cohesive partnership.

2. Consistent & Attentive Customer Service

At its core, a 3PL does project management for a company’s shipments. As a business partner, it is crucial for the 3PL to be dedicated to customer service. A successful 3PL knows the customer comes first and promises their customers they will be taken care of from the moment their shipment is picked up to when it is dropped off.

3. Trustworthy & Dedicated Carriers

3PL companies take responsibility for all your logistics needs – this means trusting the 3PL to partner with carriers who will also handle your shipments with care. You need to be sure that your 3PL will entrust the right carriers, closely monitor your product while it’s in transit and keep you updated by utilizing the latest technology and resources along the way.

4. Hardworking & Ambitious Employees

The employees at your 3PL will be the gatekeepers to the success of the relationship. Their employees must be committed to each shipment they are responsible and determined to keep you, the customer, happy and confident in their abilities.

5. Supportive & Rewarding Partnership

The key to a successful 3PL partnership is that both companies are supported and benefit from the relationship. This is crucial in any business endeavor, but it is increasingly important when your company’s goods are at stake. With a 3PL partnership, each party needs to these the potential for growth once the partnership is set in place.

There you have it, the five-not-so-hidden secrets to a successful partnership with a 3PL. Finding a company with a strong mission, attentive customer service, dedicated carriers, hardworking employees AND a rewarding partnership – is the whole package. When a company has these five secrets mastered, they can guarantee a long-lasting partnership.

What do you think is the most important when looking for a long-lasting business partnership?

All the Best,

Jeff Beckham