Examples of 3PL Company Providers & Some That Are Not (& Is DHL Really a 3PL?) (2024)

I. The 3PL Basics

In the world of logistics and supply chain management, businesses must seek methods to optimize, scale, and enhance their operations in order to grow. Central to these efforts is the concept of Third-party Logistics, commonly known as 3PL. A 3PL company specializes in integrated operation, warehousing, and transportation services that can be scaled and customized according to the customer’s needs and market conditions. With the rapid globalization of industries and the increasing complexity of supply chains, 3PLs have emerged as invaluable partners for businesses looking to streamline their operations.

However, as with many industries, the landscape of logistics providers has seen a surge of companies, each offering a myriad of services. This growth carries with it a challenge: distinguishing genuine 3PL companies from entities that provide some but not all aspects of third-party logistics. For businesses looking to outsource their logistics operations, this differentiation is paramount. It ensures they align with a provider that genuinely matches their requirements and does not find themselves entangled in a web of services that do not truly serve their needs.

In this post, let’s delve into identifying established 3PL companies, understanding the depth and breadth of their services, and spotlighting entities that, while significant in the logistics field, are not 3PLs in the strictest sense.

II. What Exactly is a 3PL Company?

The term “3PL” stands for Third-party Logistics. At a glance, it refers to companies that manage and execute logistics operations for another organization’s products, often providing multiple services in the realm of supply chain management. But let’s dig deeper into its definition, roles, and the inherent advantages it brings to businesses.

Definition and Primary Roles:

A 3PL company, in essence, is an external service provider that takes on various logistics-related operations of its clients. This partnership allows businesses to outsource tasks such as warehousing, transportation, order fulfillment, inventory management, and even more complex services like product kitting, cross-docking, and freight forwarding.

The primary roles of a 3PL company can be broken down as follows:

Warehousing: Safely storing products in strategically located facilities to optimize distribution.
Transportation: Ensuring the smooth and timely movement of goods from one point to another.
Order Fulfillment: Picking, packing, and shipping orders directly to end consumers or retailers.
Inventory Management: Keeping track of stock levels, ensuring optimal inventory turnover, and minimizing storage costs.
Value-added Services: Providing specialized services such as product assembly, packaging, labeling, reverse logistics, and even customer service operations related to logistics.

Advantages of Using 3PLs for Businesses:

Outsourcing logistics operations to 3PLs carries a host of advantages for businesses:

Expertise: 3PLs bring specialized knowledge and experience in managing complex supply chains. This expertise can significantly enhance operational efficiency and reduce errors.
Scalability: With a 3PL partner, businesses can effortlessly scale operations up or down based on market demand, without the challenges of managing additional resources or infrastructure.
Cost Savings: 3PLs often provide cost efficiencies through optimized routes, bulk shipping discounts, and reduced overhead costs associated with warehousing and staff.
Focus on Core Competencies: By outsourcing logistics, businesses can concentrate on their core offerings, be it product development, marketing, or sales, without the distraction of day-to-day logistics management.
Technological Advantage: Many 3PLs invest heavily in state-of-the-art technology that provides real-time tracking, analytics, and data-driven insights, giving businesses a competitive edge in the market.

A 3PL company acts as a bridge between manufacturers or retailers and their end customers, ensuring that products reach their destination efficiently and effectively. As the dynamics of global trade continue to evolve, these third-party entities remain pivotal in ensuring the smooth flow of goods across the global marketplace.

III. Examples of Renowned 3PL Companies

The logistics industry boasts an array of companies offering varied services. Among these, a select few stand out as notables, recognized for their extensive networks, technological advancements, or reliable service. Below, we highlight some of the more esteemed 3PL companies in the market:

Speed Commerce

Brief Overview: Speed Commerce is a prominent logistics provider that focuses on end-to-end e-commerce solutions. From order fulfillment and customer care to tech-savvy platforms, the company integrates every aspect of the online retail journey.

Services Offered: Order fulfillment, digital platforms, customer care, and freight services.

DHL Supply Chain & Global Forwarding

Brief Overview: Yes DHL is a 3PL, offering standard 3PL services, but it’s known more by the public as a freight company that other 3PLs use, hence the confusion around DHL. A part of the larger DHL brand, this arm specializes in logistics, offering global reach combined with local market expertise.

IV. What Characteristics Define a True 3PL

Navigating the extensive world of logistics, one might come across numerous companies offering an array of services. However, not every logistics provider is a genuine 3PL. Recognizing a true 3PL company requires an understanding of specific characteristics that set them apart. Let’s break down the distinguishing traits.

Integrated Logistics Solutions:

A hallmark of a true 3PL is the provision of a comprehensive suite of services that cover the entirety of the supply chain. This includes transportation, warehousing, and distribution. It’s not just about moving goods from Point A to Point B; it’s about seamlessly integrating all stages to ensure a smooth flow of goods.

Technology and System Support:

Modern 3PLs are heavily reliant on technology to optimize their operations. This involves utilizing advanced software for inventory management, sophisticated tracking systems for real-time cargo visibility, and data analytics to continuously refine processes. A true 3PL will not only have these technologies in place but will also be adaptable to emerging technological trends in the industry.

Value-added Services:

Beyond the basic offerings of storage and transportation, a genuine 3PL will provide additional services that enhance the value proposition to their clients. This can include tasks such as packaging, labeling, reverse logistics (handling returns), and even customer service operations pertinent to the logistics function.

Scalability and Flexibility:

One of the most defining characteristics of a true 3PL is its ability to scale its services in alignment with a client’s changing needs. Whether it’s peak season demand, entering a new market, or managing unexpected supply chain disruptions, a 3PL should be equipped to flexibly adapt its services.

Long-term Partnership Orientation:

Instead of viewing their role as merely transactional, a genuine 3PL sees itself as a strategic partner. This perspective fosters a deep-rooted commitment to the client’s success, leading to a proactive approach in finding efficiencies, cost savings, and delivering consistent value.

Expertise and Specialized Knowledge:

A real 3PL brings to the table profound industry knowledge, market insights, and expertise. Their teams will be well-versed in best practices, compliance, and regulations, ensuring that a business’s logistics operations are not just efficient, but also compliant.

Global and Local Network:

A defining feature of 3PLs is their extensive network. This doesn’t just mean global reach, but also local market expertise. Such a network ensures that goods are moved efficiently, even in challenging regions or during demanding times.

In essence, while various companies might offer logistics-related services, a true 3PL embodies a synergy of the above characteristics. They act as a seamless extension of a business, driving efficiency, cost savings, and reliability in the supply chain. For companies looking to engage with a 3PL, it’s imperative to ensure that their chosen partner embodies these traits, guaranteeing a fruitful and enduring partnership.

V. Common Misconceptions and Companies Mistaken as 3PLs

In the realm of logistics, the lines between different service providers often blur, leading to misconceptions. This can result in businesses partnering with entities that might not offer the comprehensive solutions they anticipate from a 3PL. Let’s demystify some of these misconceptions and clarify which companies, though crucial in the logistics domain, are not 3PLs in the strictest sense.

Freight Forwarders:

Description & Primary Roles: Freight forwarders specialize in arranging the transportation of goods across international borders. They typically handle documentation, regulations, cargo consolidation, and sometimes, warehousing.
How They Differ from 3PLs: While freight forwarders are crucial for international shipping, they don’t usually offer an end-to-end logistics solution. Their primary function is to ensure goods are transported from one country to another, not the holistic management of a supply chain.

Brokers or Transportation Intermediaries:

Description & Primary Roles: Brokers connect shippers with transportation services, acting as the middlemen. They find the most suitable carriers for the goods in terms of timing, cost, and route, without typically handling the goods themselves.
How They Differ from 3PLs: Brokers don’t possess assets like trucks or warehouses. Their role is mainly coordinative, not comprehensive. A 3PL, in contrast, offers a broader array of services, often owning or controlling the assets used.

Courier Services (like FedEx or UPS):

Description & Primary Roles: Couriers are companies that deliver packages and mail, often with a focus on speed and individual parcel tracking.
How They Differ from 3PLs: While many courier services have expanded to offer some 3PL-like services due to market demand, their primary function remains parcel delivery. They might not provide integrated supply chain solutions as a dedicated 3PL would.

Warehouse Only Service Providers:

Description & Primary Roles: These are companies that offer storage solutions without the broader range of logistics services. They lease space to businesses for storing goods.
How They Differ from 3PLs: While warehousing is a vital component of logistics, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. 3PLs combine warehousing with transportation, distribution, and often, many other value-added services.

Digital Freight Marketplaces:

Description & Primary Roles: Emergent digital platforms that connect shippers with carriers, much like a digital broker. They rely on technology to automate and optimize shipping processes.
How They Differ from 3PLs: Although they bring a tech-forward approach to freight management, these platforms primarily act as intermediaries. They lack the end-to-end, integrated solutions characteristic of 3PLs.

Dropshipping Companies:

Description & Primary Roles: Dropshipping entities hold inventory for businesses and ship products directly to consumers once a sale is made. The retailer doesn’t handle the product directly.
How They Differ from 3PLs: Dropshipping is an e-commerce fulfillment model, not a complete logistics solution. 3PLs can facilitate dropshipping, but their services extend far beyond it.

Trucking Companies:

Description & Primary Roles: These companies specialize in the transportation of goods via trucks. They might offer a range of services like LTL (Less than Truckload) or FTL (Full Truckload) shipments.
How They Differ from 3PLs: Trucking is specific to the transport aspect of the supply chain. 3PLs, on the other hand, offer integrated solutions encompassing storage, distribution, and more.

While all these entities play essential roles in the logistics and supply chain ecosystem, they’re not comprehensive 3PL providers. Businesses must be discerning in understanding what each company offers to ensure alignment with their specific logistics needs.

VI. The Importance of Differentiating Between 3PL and Non-3PLs

Understanding the distinctions between 3PLs and non-3PLs isn’t merely an academic exercise; it holds practical implications for businesses seeking logistics partners. Here’s why differentiating between them is vital:

Customized Service Needs:

Why It Matters: Every business has unique logistical requirements. For some, end-to-end solutions may be paramount, while others may need specific services like international freight forwarding.
Benefit of Clear Differentiation: Knowing the difference ensures that a business partners with a company that offers the precise services it needs, resulting in a more streamlined and efficient logistics process.

Cost Implications:

Why It Matters: Engaging with an inappropriate logistics partner can lead to unexpected costs. For instance, a company might end up paying for an entire suite of services when they only needed one.
Benefit of Clear Differentiation: Understanding the offerings ensures budget optimization. Businesses can invest specifically in services they need, avoiding extraneous costs.

Operational Efficiency:

Why It Matters: A mismatch between a business’s logistical requirements and a service provider’s offerings can create operational bottlenecks. For instance, relying solely on a freight forwarder when end-to-end supply chain management is needed can lead to inefficiencies.
Benefit of Clear Differentiation: By choosing a partner aligned with operational needs, businesses can optimize their supply chain, ensuring smoother workflows and quicker turnaround times.

Scalability Concerns:

Why It Matters: As businesses grow, their logistics needs evolve. Partnering with a company that can’t scale services in tandem with business growth can hinder expansion plans.
Benefit of Clear Differentiation: Recognizing which providers can scale up or diversify services in alignment with growth ensures that logistical operations won’t become a bottleneck in expansion strategies.

Strategic Partnerships:

Why It Matters: In today’s competitive marketplace, businesses don’t just need service providers; they need strategic partners. The latter entails long-term collaboration, shared goals, and mutual growth.
Benefit of Clear Differentiation: Identifying true 3PLs can lead to more symbiotic relationships, where both parties invest in shared success, as opposed to transactional relationships.

Risk Management:

Why It Matters: Engaging with multiple logistics providers because of a misunderstanding can complicate the supply chain, increasing the risk of errors, miscommunication, and delays.
Benefit of Clear Differentiation: Knowing the capacities of potential partners ensures that businesses can consolidate services where needed, reducing points of potential failure.

Technological Integration:

Why It Matters: Modern supply chains rely heavily on technology for operations like inventory management, real-time tracking, and data analytics. Working with a provider that doesn’t offer necessary technological solutions can hamper digital strategies.
Benefit of Clear Differentiation: Understanding who offers what technology ensures that businesses remain technologically advanced, leveraging the latest in logistics tech.

The distinction between 3PLs and non-3PLs, far from being trivial, holds important implications for cost-efficiency, operational smoothness, and long-term business growth. Companies looking to optimize their logistics would do well to understand these nuances.