Include your 3PL provider when developing your logistics strategy and fully discuss your expectations for inventory storage and order fulfillment to providing the unique value added services your business seeks. Your 3PL provider focuses solely on your on your logistics, freeing you up to focus on your core competencies. Let them be the experts in efficient logistics, cost savings, and providing you with a competitive edge.
3PL Value Added Services – Services as Unique as Your Business
Your 3PL provides the services and expertise that support your business’ s logistics requirements. From a simple kitting operation to a specialized security system, a solid IT foundation enables your 3PL provider to manage your supply chain, in part or in its entirety, and to efficiently deliver exceptional value added services.
Accessing your 3PLs systems or integrating their system with your system provides you with the visibility that you require into your logistics process all while improving profitability for you. There are two value added services that exemplify this, ATO, assemble-to-order, and Reverse Logistics.
Lower Costs with ATO
When your 3PL supports your ATO, assemble-to-order, requirements, from small assembly and testing to packaging, inventory levels remain lean because you don’t have to stock finished goods, resulting in lower inventory and freight costs. An assemble-to-order strategy positions you to gain competitive advantage by offering customized products and delivering them quickly.
Recapturing Value with Reverse Logistics
Your 3PL provider is an expert at sending your product out into the channel thereby making them the logical source to handle those items that come back through the channel. There’s a great opportunity for economies of scale when you outsource your reverse logistics to a 3PL provider who provides product returns management, product testing and repair, refurbishment, recycling, product disposal and reclamation. Other benefits include asset recovery, lower inventory costs, and a high level of customer satisfaction.
Supporting Your Goals
Your 3PL partner will support and nurture the vision that you have for your business. They have the experience to develop a fully customized solution that will meet your unique business needs and to reach your goals.
Your 3PL is Your Strategic Business Partner
Get your 3PL onboard with new initiatives as soon as possible and in turn they will bring expertise, knowledge and experience to offer best-practice suggestions, making it possible for you to benefit from maximized efficiency and improved financial performance. Provide as much information to your 3PL on what you want to accomplish and that, coupled with your 3PLs expertise will have a positive impact on your bottom line.
Deciding on a third party logistics provider can be a challenge. Take advantage of the free quote that 3PL companies offer.
