by Ryan Markiewicz | Dec 23, 2024 | News
In today’s fast-paced business world, efficient logistics management is crucial for smooth operations. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers can help many companies streamline their supply chains and boost performance. With a capable 3PL partner, businesses can optimize their logistics by outsourcing key functions to experts who specialize in warehousing, shipping, and transportation. The importance of a 3PL lies in its ability to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and help companies meet the growing demands of the global market. It is a game-changer for many industries worldwide, driving success and fueling growth.
What is Third-Party Logistics?
Third-party logistics involves outsourcing logistics functions to an external company, often called a 3PL provider. 3PL companies specialize in various supply chain services, such as warehousing, transportation, and inventory management, helping businesses save time, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
A 3PL provider typically offers a wide range of logistics services, including:
- Warehousing: Storing goods in warehouses until they’re needed.
- Transportation: Handling the shipping of products to customers or other businesses.
- Import & Export: Helping shippers get their products to or from international markets.
- Technology: Providing access to transportation management systems (TMS) and warehouse management systems (WMS).
In essence, a 3PL company becomes an extension of your business by handling the logistics side of things, allowing you to focus on other important areas.
The Role of a 3PL in the Supply Chain
Third-party logistics is a crucial element of the supply chain. When a company uses 3PL services, it outsources parts of the logistics process, such as warehousing, freight management, or shipping. This outsourced approach allows businesses to streamline their supply chains and reduce inefficiencies.
The Third-Party Logistics Industry
The third-party logistics industry has grown rapidly in recent years thanks to its cost-saving potential and ability to streamline operations for businesses of all sizes. According to market research, the global 3PL market is expected to reach over $1 trillion by 2025. This growth reflects the increasing demand for professional logistics services to keep up with the complexities of modern supply chains.
Benefits of Third-Party Logistics
Using a 3PL provider can bring several advantages to a business. These benefits include:
- Cost Efficiency: By outsourcing logistics, businesses can save on infrastructure costs, warehouse space, and staffing. 3PL providers can also leverage economies of scale, reducing transportation costs.
- Expertise: Logistics providers have the knowledge and experience needed to handle the complexities of the supply chain. This expertise includes compliance with regulations, managing inventory, and optimizing routes for transportation.
- Scalability: 3PL services allow businesses to scale operations more quickly. Whether expanding to new regions or dealing with seasonal demand, a third-party logistics provider can adjust to your needs.
- Focus on Core Business: Outsourcing logistics lets you focus on what matters most—your core business activities—while leaving the complexities of logistics to the experts.
3PL in the Supply Chain:
- Transportation: 3PL providers manage transportation logistics, optimize delivery routes, and ensure products arrive on time.
- Warehousing: Warehousing is essential for inventory management. 3PL warehouses can store goods, track inventory levels, and handle order fulfillment.
- Technology: Many 3PL companies integrate advanced technologies like real-time tracking and automation to enhance logistics processes.
Common Types of 3PL Providers
There are a variety of companies that provide 3PL services, each catering to different logistics needs. Some of the most common types include:
- 3PL Logistics Providers: These focus on specific logistics needs such as warehousing, freight management, and delivery services.
- Warehouse Providers: These companies specialize in storing and managing goods within warehouses.
- Freight Providers: Companies with assets, such as trucks or planes, specializing in freight services, helping businesses move large quantities of goods.
- 3PL and 4PL Technology Providers: These providers focus on integrating technology to optimize supply chains. Oftentimes, that technology contains artificial intelligence (AI), business intelligence (BI), or global control towers.
How to Choose the Best 3PL Provider for Your Business
Selecting the right third-party logistics provider can greatly impact your business’s success. Here are a few tips to help you choose:
- Experience: Look for a provider with a proven track record in your industry, whether e-commerce, healthcare, data centers, energy, manufacturing, or others.
- Scalability: Your chosen provider should be able to grow with your business, adjusting to your changing needs.
- Technology: Ensure the provider uses advanced technologies, such as tracking systems, warehouse management tools, and automation.
- Customer Support: Good communication and support are essential. Your logistics provider should be easy to reach and responsive to your needs.
- Culture: The best partners are the ones that have a good fit with the culture of your own business. Flat versus rigid? Casual versus formal? Transparent versus guarded? These are essential considerations as well.
3PL vs. In-House Logistics: The Smarter Choice for Business Success
When it comes to logistics, the decision between managing it in-house or outsourcing to a 3PL provider can profoundly impact your business. While handling logistics internally may seem like a cost-effective solution, it often comes with hidden expenses, including staffing, warehouse space, and the need for specialized equipment. Outsourcing to a 3PL provider frees up valuable resources, allowing you to focus on growing your business while reducing costs and improving operational efficiency. Whether you’re a small business or a large enterprise, 3PL services offer a powerful solution to streamline your supply chain. From warehousing and transportation to inventory management and shipping, the right 3PL partner ensures your products reach customers faster, more efficiently, and at a lower cost, ultimately fueling your business’s growth and success.
Ready to begin your journey?
by Scott Frederick | Dec 20, 2024 | News
Logistics Plus Philippines Achieves Certification of Registration for SEHQ Excellence
The certification affirms operational excellence, workplace safety, sustainability, and quality management.
Makati, Philippines (December 21, 2024) – Logistics Plus Supply Chain Philippines, Inc., a division of Logistics Plus, Inc., a global leader in transportation, logistics, and unique supply chain solutions, is proud to announce that it has received the Certificate of Registration for Safety, Environment, Health, and Quality (SEHQ). This achievement underscores its commitment to operational excellence, workplace safety, and globally recognized best practices in sustainability and quality management.
“This milestone reflects our team’s dedication to continuous improvement and reinforces our position as a trusted partner for clients and stakeholders,” said Mario Lin Victoria Jr., Country Manager and Managing Director for Logistics Plus Philippines.
Learn more about Logistics Plus Philippines at ph.logisticsplus.com.
About Logistics Plus, Inc.
Logistics Plus, Inc. (LP) is a 21st-century logistics company and a leading worldwide provider of transportation, warehousing, fulfillment, global logistics, business intelligence, technology, and supply chain solutions. LP works in the background to help businesses manage their supply chains in an ever-changing world. Founded in 1996, today LP has annual global sales of over $600M with more than 1,200 employees located in 50+ countries worldwide. LP is recognized as one of the fastest-growing privately-owned logistics companies, a top 3PL provider, a top 100 logistics company, a top freight brokerage and warehousing provider, and a great place to work. With a Passion For Excellence™, its employees put the PLUS in LOGISTICS by doing the big things properly, plus the countless little things that together ensure complete customer satisfaction and success.
Media Contact:
Mario Lin Victoria Jr. | Country Manager / Managing Director
Logistics Plus Philippines
+63 999 407 5200
mario.victoria@logisticsplus.com
by Scott Frederick | Dec 19, 2024 | News
Logistics Plus Presents Letters of Support to Chornomorsk Mayor
Letters of support solidify the bond between Erie, Pennsylvania, and Chornomorsk, Ukraine, as new sister cities.
ERIE, PA (December 20, 2024) – Logistics Plus, Inc., a global leader in transportation, logistics, and unique supply chain solutions, last week presented Chornomorsk Mayor Vasyl Huliaiev with numerous letters of support from Erie, Pennsylvania-based companies, universities, and organizations. Derek Berlin, Senior Vice President of Government Solutions for Logistics Plus, traveled to Chornomorsk, a major port city in southern Ukraine, to deliver the letters in person.
View copies of all letters at logisticsplus.com/chornomork-letters.
Erie Mayor Joe Schember and Chornomorsk Mayor Huliaiev entered into a Sister City Agreement on November 29th to deepen friendship and mutual understanding between the two cities through educational, cultural, industrial, and economic exchanges. Logistics Plus, a passionate supporter of Ukraine since the war began over two and a half years ago, played a key role in facilitating the sister-city agreement between the two cities.
In late 2023, Logistics Plus managed a complex delivery to Ukraine comprising 22 thousand tons of pipes, four ocean vessels, and over 1,000 trucks. The final ocean delivery was the first non-grain, U.S.-managed ship to the Port of Chornomork since the onset of the war. Logistics Plus continues to provide valuable relief to Ukraine and is helping many companies do business throughout the region.
In the opening letter, Logistics Plus Founder and CEO Jim Berlin wrote, “I know Derek will represent us well, and I look forward to my next visit and many good days ahead for you and the people of Chornomorsk, getting to know the good people of Erie, Pennsylvania, another port city.”
“I think this was a meaningful discussion with promise for a city that has been pounded relentlessly for almost three years,” Derek Berlin commented after the ceremony. “They fully understand that we are not a silver bullet for any of their challenges, but knowing that we will make an effort to be creative in connecting dots to help them seemed greatly appreciated.”
Jim Berlin added some additional comments, “We have been among the first ones in Ukraine from the day of the invasion. And, when the US and the rest of the world help rebuild Chornomorsk and other parts of the country once this war ends, Logistics Plus will lead the way. We are the ‘tip of the shovel.’ When others see what we are doing, they may join in and start digging with us, too.”
About Logistics Plus, Inc.
Logistics Plus, Inc. (LP) is a 21st-century logistics company and a leading worldwide provider of transportation, warehousing, fulfillment, global logistics, business intelligence, technology, and supply chain solutions. LP works in the background to help businesses manage their supply chains in an ever-changing world. Founded in 1996, today LP has annual global sales of over $600M with more than 1,200 employees located in 50+ countries worldwide. LP is recognized as one of the fastest-growing privately-owned logistics companies, a top 3PL provider, a top 100 logistics company, a top freight brokerage and warehousing provider, and a great place to work. With a Passion For Excellence™, its employees put the PLUS in LOGISTICS by doing the big things properly, plus the countless little things that together ensure complete customer satisfaction and success.
by Scott Frederick | Dec 19, 2024 | News
Logistics Plus Named to Newsweek’s Excellence 1000 Index
Logistics Plus is among the leading companies recognized for customer service, social responsibility, and excellence.
ERIE, PA (December 19, 2024) – Logistics Plus, Inc., a global leader in transportation, logistics, and unique supply chain solutions, is honored to have been named by Newsweek to the 2nd annual Excellence 1000 Index, the result of a collaboration between Newsweek and the Best Practice Institute (BPI), a leadership development and benchmark research company. The Excellence 1000 Index lists the top 1000 companies that have demonstrated best practices in financial responsibility, stakeholder ratings, and social responsibility ratings.
In addition to making the overall list, Logistics Plus was rated 12th for excellence, 9th for customer service, and 12th for social responsibility among the 42 Transportation & Logistics companies that made the index within the Shipping & Trucking category.
BPI determined the results after analyzing over half a million data points and creating a proprietary scoring system to measure everything from financial practices to customer reviews, ESG commitments, and more to build the 2nd annual Excellence 1000 Index.
Please view the complete list and learn more about its methodology at https://excellence.bestpracticeinstitute.org/lists/.
The list also appears on the Newsweek website at https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/newsweek-excellence-index-2025.
“Corporate success today goes beyond financial performance. The Excellence 1000 Index honors companies that balance strategic growth with a deep commitment to ethics, social responsibility, and sustainability. Together with our partner Best Practice Institute, we are proud to recognize these organizations redefining leadership in the corporate world.”—Nancy Cooper, Global Editor in Chief of Newsweek.
Methodology
To identify the top 1000 companies for the Excellence 1000 Index, companies were evaluated based on several criteria including Employee rating, Customer rating, ESG risk rating, ESG/Ethical impact, Adherence to ISO standards, R&D spending, Global Compact Status, Financial performance, BBB Rating and Accreditation, Number of customer complaints among others. Each of the criteria considered is equally ranked in importance.
About Newsweek
Newsweek is the modern global digital news organization built around the iconic, over 85-year-old American magazine. Newsweek reaches 100 million people each month with its thought-provoking news, opinion, images, graphics, and video delivered across a dozen print and digital platforms. Headquartered in New York City, Newsweek also publishes international editions in EMEA and Asia.
About Best Practice Institute
Best Practice Institute (BPI) is a global leader in leadership development and benchmark research, distinguished by its data-driven approach to organizational assessment. As the research architect behind Newsweek’s Excellence 1000 Index, BPI analyzes over half a million data points annually through its proprietary scoring system, evaluating companies across multiple dimensions, including employee satisfaction, customer experience, ESG performance, and financial responsibility. BPI’s comprehensive methodology encompasses crucial metrics such as ISO standards compliance, R&D investment, UN Global Compact alignment, and stakeholder feedback. Through this rigorous analytical framework and innovative assessment tools, BPI continues to set the standard for identifying and promoting corporate excellence in the modern business landscape.
About Logistics Plus, Inc.
Logistics Plus, Inc. (LP) is a 21st-century logistics company and a leading worldwide provider of transportation, warehousing, fulfillment, global logistics, business intelligence, technology, and supply chain solutions. LP works in the background to help businesses manage their supply chains in an ever-changing world. Founded in 1996, today LP has annual global sales of over $600M with more than 1,200 employees located in 50+ countries worldwide. LP is recognized as one of the fastest-growing privately-owned logistics companies, a top 3PL provider, a top 100 logistics company, a top freight brokerage and warehousing provider, and a great place to work. With a Passion For Excellence™, its employees put the PLUS in LOGISTICS by doing the big things properly, plus the countless little things that together ensure complete customer satisfaction and success.
by Scott Frederick | Dec 17, 2024 | News
Logistics Plus is Named a Top 50 3PL by Global Trade Magazine
Logistics Plus has been honored for the fifth time in the past six years.
ERIE, PA (December 17, 2024) – Logistics Plus, Inc., a global leader in transportation, logistics, and unique supply chain solutions, is proud to announce that it has been named a Top 50 third-party logistics provider by Global Trade magazine. It is the fifth time in the past six years that the editors of Global Trade have recognized Logistics Plus as one of its leading 3PL providers.
The 2024 leading 3PL providers list was announced in the Fall 2024 edition of Global Trade magazine, just released online. According to the publication, Logistics Plus is considered a “Titan” because it is “a dynamic and growing force in the logistics industry, known for their customer-centric approach and innovative solutions.”
“Being recognized, once again, as an industry leader and industry Titan by Global Trade magazine is a tremendous honor,” said Jim Berlin, Founder & CEO of Logistics Plus. “It’s a good honor for our people that do all the hard work and to be recognized. I’m not big fan of awards, but it’s nice to be acknowledged as one of the best at what we do.”
You can read a digital edition of the magazine online at https://globaltrade.mydigitalpublication.com/fall-2024/page-24.
About Global Trade
Global Trade magazine is the authority for U.S. companies doing business globally. It educates and entertains its readers on ways to utilize the global marketplace to increase market share and corporate profits through creative efficiencies in cargo transportation, banking, joint ventures, and outsourcing. Visit www.globaltrademag.com to learn more.
About Logistics Plus, Inc.
Logistics Plus, Inc. (LP) is a 21st-century logistics company and a leading worldwide provider of transportation, warehousing, fulfillment, global logistics, business intelligence, technology, and supply chain solutions. LP works in the background to help businesses manage their supply chains in an ever-changing world. Founded in 1996, today LP has annual global sales of over $600M with more than 1,200 employees located in 50+ countries worldwide. LP is recognized as one of the fastest-growing privately-owned logistics companies, a top 3PL provider, a top 100 logistics company, a top freight brokerage and warehousing provider, and a great place to work. With a Passion For Excellence™, its employees put the PLUS in LOGISTICS by doing the big things properly, plus the countless little things that together ensure complete customer satisfaction and success.
by Ryan Markiewicz | Dec 16, 2024 | News
Efficient shipping is the cornerstone of modern logistics, enabling businesses to manage costs, meet customer expectations, and maintain a competitive edge. Among the many shipping methods available, less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping has emerged as a versatile solution for businesses with smaller shipments. Whether you want to cut transportation costs, enhance operational flexibility, or reduce your environmental footprint, understanding LTL shipping can revolutionize your approach to freight transportation.
Understanding Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) Freight
At its core, LTL shipping involves transporting goods that do not require an entire truck. Instead of dedicating a vehicle to a single shipment, LTL carriers consolidate shipments from multiple businesses onto one truck. This approach optimizes truck space, lowers costs, and reduces environmental impact. LTL is ideal for shipments weighing between 150 and 15,000 pounds, making it a practical choice for retail, e-commerce, and small-scale manufacturing industries.
How LTL Shipping Works
LTL shipping revolves around efficiency and collaboration. Carriers collect shipments from various businesses and consolidate them at regional hubs. These consolidated loads are then transported to distribution centers or directly to their final destinations. This shared-network approach allows shippers to pay only for the truck space their goods occupy. By combining multiple shipments into one vehicle, LTL carriers achieve significant cost savings and operational efficiency.
Advantages of Choosing LTL Freight
LTL shipping offers a range of benefits that make it an attractive option for businesses with smaller or irregular shipments:
- Cost-Effective Solution: Sharing truck space with other shippers significantly reduces shipping costs, especially for smaller loads that don’t justify the expense of a full truckload.
- Sustainable Shipping: Consolidating shipments minimizes the number of trucks on the road, reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Thus, LTL is an environmentally friendly choice.
- Scalability: LTL freight is highly adaptable, accommodating businesses with varying shipment sizes and fluctuating transportation needs.
- Liability: Although less than typical full truckload carriers, LTL carriers typically have higher liability limits than parcel carriers if your shipment is lost or damaged in transit.
When to Opt for LTL Freight
LTL shipping is the go-to choice for businesses that need to move moderately sized loads without filling an entire truck. For instance, shipping a single pallet weighing 250 pounds with dimensions of 48x40x60 inches is a perfect scenario for LTL freight. Additionally, businesses can customize their carrier preferences, excluding specific carriers or prioritizing others to align with their delivery needs and service expectations.
Comparing LTL to Full Truckload (FTL) Shipping
While both LTL and FTL shipping serve distinct purposes, understanding their differences can help businesses choose the right option for their needs:
- Cost: In LTL shipping, shippers pay only for the space their goods occupy, making it a more economical choice for smaller loads. On the other hand, FTL shipping dedicates an entire truck to a single shipment, which can be more expensive but ideal for larger loads.
- Transit Time: LTL shipping often involves multiple stops and transfers, which can slightly increase transit times. FTL shipments are direct, offering faster delivery for high-priority loads.
- Scalability: LTL is better suited for businesses with smaller, more frequent shipments, while FTL is ideal for bulk transportation.
Businesses can select the most suitable method for their logistical needs by weighing these factors.
Overcoming LTL Shipping Challenges
Despite its many advantages, LTL shipping is not without its challenges. Proactively addressing these issues can help businesses ensure smooth operations:
- Longer Transit Times: The shared nature of LTL shipping can result in extended delivery windows due to multiple stops and transfers. Proper planning and communication with carriers can mitigate delays.
- Potential for Damage: Increased handling during loading, unloading, and transfers raises the risk of wear and tear. Shippers should use robust packaging materials to minimize damage and properly secure their goods.
- Complex Pricing Structures: LTL shipping costs depend on factors such as freight class, weight, dimensions, and accessorial charges. Partnering with experienced carriers or third-party logistics providers (3PLs) can simplify pricing and help businesses make informed decisions.
The Role of LTL in Modern Logistics
In today’s dynamic supply chain environment, LTL carriers play a pivotal role. Their expertise in freight consolidation, tracking, and specialized services enables businesses to focus on growth while ensuring efficient shipment handling. Key offerings include:
- Real-Time Tracking: Advanced tracking technologies provide visibility into shipment locations and delivery timelines, enhancing transparency and customer satisfaction.
- Specialized Services: LTL carriers offer options such as residential delivery, liftgate assistance, inside delivery, or even guaranteed morning or afternoon delivery, which may cater to diverse business needs.
- Flexibility: Combining loads from various shippers allows LTL carriers to optimize routes and reduce transportation costs.
Why LTL Matters
LTL shipping is more than just a logistics strategy; it’s a practical solution for businesses seeking efficiency, cost savings, and flexibility. By leveraging LTL, companies can:
- Streamline operations by focusing on core business activities.
- Optimize transportation budgets by paying only for the space used.
- Contribute to sustainable logistics practices by reducing their carbon footprint.
Tips for Maximizing LTL Shipping Success
To get the most out of LTL shipping, businesses should consider the following best practices:
- Understand Freight Classes: Properly classify your shipments to avoid unexpected charges and ensure smooth transit. Experienced 3PLs can often assist shippers in determining proper freight classification.
- Use Reliable Packaging: Protect your goods with high-quality packaging to minimize damage during transit. Also, since LTL carrier pricing is based on the space a shipment occupies on the trailer, limiting unnecessary “air” in your packaging will ensure no additional fees are applied.
- Plan Ahead: Schedule shipments in advance to accommodate potential delays in LTL transit times.
- Partner with Trusted Providers: Work with reputable carriers or 3PLs to navigate the complexities of LTL shipping and access value-added services.
- Leverage Technology: Utilize tools like transportation management systems (TMS) to track shipments, compare rates, and optimize routes.
The Future of LTL Shipping
Less Than Truckload (LTL) shipping is a pivotal solution for businesses handling smaller shipments in the evolving logistics landscape. Companies can transform their supply chains into more efficient and eco-conscious systems by embracing cutting-edge innovations like AI-driven route planning, real-time tracking, and sustainable delivery methods. LTL freight offers cost savings and adaptability and aligns with the growing focus on environmental responsibility. As the industry advances, businesses that leverage the potential of LTL shipping will be better equipped to optimize resources, enhance delivery performance, and maintain a competitive edge in a dynamic marketplace.
Need help with LTL shipping? The LTL experts at Logistics Plus are here to help.
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