Over the past two decades third-party logistics, or 3PL as they are commonly called, have undergone significant changes. They have evolved from just a warehousing service to a full-swing logistical partner of some of the major businesses in the world. This is down to their effectiveness and expertise in the logistical side of the company. They are why many online companies worldwide have become successful over time. Learn more about third-party logistics at https://redstagfulfillment.com/3pl-definition-process-resources/.
1. Modifications over Time
Initially, 3PL companies had to own warehouses and manage inventories of their overseas clients. However, they have incorporated services like order processing, shipment, collecting merchandise, returns processing, and all other logistics operations over the past decade. This is one of the most significant changes these services providers have undergone. As a result, your business doesn’t need to spend resources on building a logistics department, you can hire one of these firms, and they handle everything.
2. Global Reach
Over the years, 3PL firms, especially those in China, have expanded their global reach. A Chinese product is now found even in the remotest parts of the world, and it’s all down to these 3PL firms. These services were only limited to a local region in the past, but now you can ship your products to different continents. As a result, businesses can grow exponentially if they hire an exceptional 3PL service provider.
3. Online Support
Over the past two decades, online businesses have multiplied. Now you can order anything from around the world, and it will reach your doorstep within days. This is all down to the evolution of 3PL services, and a big part of this change is the internet. You don’t have to travel to a foreign country to book and ship a consignment; just hire a 3PL company, tell them what you are looking for, and they will get to work immediately. However, such convenience was unthinkable in the past, especially for a business looking for logistical support.
4. Ecommerce
Online businesses or ecommerce is the new way of expanding business. Their popularity is also down to the evolution in services of 3PL companies. Now, you don’t have to spend money on building a warehouse, hiring a logistical and order processing team; a 3PL company will take care of it all and much more. Ecommerce has allowed small businesses to survive in this competitive market and grow significantly.
5. Supplier Support
In most cases, a 3PL company will have certain suppliers on its panel that offers special discounts to those firms. In the past, very few such firms dealt with the suppliers directly. But over the years, 3PL companies have taken steps to ensure their clients get the best service. That’s why now if you contact a 3PL provider and relay your order details, it responds with a quote within minutes. Besides, they will receive the product, store and ship it, saving you cash, time, and effort.
3PL services are constantly improving and learning from their past experiences. This is why they are now offering more and more services to enhance your business’s profits and growth.