If you run an e-commerce business, partnering with a premier third-party logistics company like Global Logistic Solutions can be a good strategy. Fulfilling orders yourself can be a challenge especially when your business expands. A third-party logistics company can help you manage your entire supply chain, thereby helping you save time and money.
If you’re considering hiring a third-party logistics provider, you’ll want to get the best out of the relationship with the provider.
In this article, we will outline what you can do to get the most value of your third-party logistics relationship.
- Check Their Expertise
If you’ve worked with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider before, you’ll know that these providers are not the same.
Different 3PL providers develop expertise in different areas of specializations, which means some are more qualified in specific niches.
For instance, some 3PL providers may specialize in warehousing while others can be experts in distribution.
It’s a good idea to check the expertise of the potential 3PL providers before working with them.
- Make Sure the Price Is Right
Price should be an important consideration when working with a third-party logistics provider, even though many business owners overlook this factor. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. In most cases, the quality of services you get when you partner with a third-party logistics provider is directly proportional to the amount you pay the service provider.
Many business owners tend to go with providers who quote low prices hoping that they will save money. But this ends up being a bad decision because 3PL provides that quote cheap prices rarely deliver on their promise.
It’s advisable to compare several 3PL providers and evaluate the cost-value of all the key elements of your supply chain before making a decision.
- Be Open About Your Company’s Goals
It’s a good idea to let your third-party logistics company know what you’re looking to achieve so that you’re on the same page.
Be sure to set long-term goals and involve your 3PL provider in long-term planning so that you increase the chances of getting the most out of your partnership. Long-term planning may involve things like possible acquisitions, production changes, marketing and more.
- Consider Their Cost Vs. Value
As we’ve already mentioned, business owners are more likely to be attracted by low prices. While there’s nothing wrong with going for a cheaper 3PL service provider as long as they are reliable, you need to be careful with low prices.
It’s important to evaluate the quality of services offered by a 3PL provider vs. their prices. There’s no point going for lower prices at the detriment of your business down the line. In most cases, a more expensive option could be a better investment if you consider the cost vs. value of the supply chain elements that matter to you.
Bottom Line
When you’re working with a third-party logistics provider, you want to get the most value for your money. This can only be achieved by maintaining a great relationship with your third-party logistics company. You are putting a lot of trust in a company’s hands, hoping they can help you achieve your business goals. So it’s important to consider crucial factors before making a decision.
Choosing to partner with a reputable third-party logistics company is a big step towards business success.
About Global Logistics Solutions
Global Logistics Solutions is a third-party logistics company that you can rely on for warehousing, shipping and fulfilment solutions for your e-commerce business. We leverage advanced technology and motivated workforce to meet your logistical needs with precision. Our services will help you save time, save money and take your e-commerce business to the next level.
