Friday, September 18, 2015

What to Look for in a 3PL Provider


If you’ve been following our blog, then you’ve seen us define third-party logistics (3PL) and discuss reasons why you should consider using 3PL for your company. Today, we’re going to take a slightly different approach and tell you how to pick the right 3PL. The ideal 3PL provider has all of the following:

International Reach
Today’s connected environment gives even the smallest companies the ability to extend reach worldwide. While earning global visibility is achievable by the individual, actually shipping your goods across the globe requires specific expertise. Your 3PL should be able to take your goods across the world. Even if you aren’t shipping internationally right now, choose a 3PL team that will allow you expand when you’re ready.

vision Consumer Products FulfillmentDomestic Expertise
While shipping across borders and overseas gives you a competitive edge, mastery over domestic shipping is absolutely essential to any business. Select a 3PL that's quick, accurate, and affordable when it comes to order fulfillment.

Local Cartage
While most order fulfillment companies work with other carriers when necessary to get the job done, the best teams make use of their own fleets to satisfy local orders. Order fulfillment companies using an in-house fleet are able to fully own responsibility for local orders, ensuring that the product gets to the consumer without ever switching hands.

Small Parcel Shipping
Some business models involve shipping small packages to individuals across the country—these orders aren’t always best handled by entire fleets of delivery vehicles. To accommodate smaller orders, a good 3PL will work with other carriers at competitive rates to ensure that packages arrive on time. Every delivery should be treated as important, no matter the size!

Vision Consumer Products Fulfillment has decades of experience and industry expertise in consumer products fulfillment services.  No matter who your customer is, we treat your customer as our own.  We know what makes a raving fan out of an individual customer, as well as what makes a business partner trust you with their business.  Call or email us to learn how.  We’re certain we’ll be the best fulfillment warehouse partner you have ever had!