As your business thrives and offers more products and services, you’ll eventually determine whether or not you’ll outsource shipping and fulfillment operations.
Most will turn to third-party logistics (3PL) providers to meet customers’ demands. However, it’s worth noting that not all 3PLs are the same. Not all 3PLs have the same capabilities and services.
This post will tackle the benefits of 3PLs for packaging operations. But first, here are the basics:
What is a Third-Party Logistics (3PLs)?
Third-party logistics, also known as 3PL, is the service that a business or organization offers wherein some or all of its logistics systems are outsourced. This outsourcing will cover everything from the warehousing up until the delivery. It allows the organization to focus on other more crucial parts of their business.
Usually, 3PL companies offer everything under the logistics umbrella. It includes transportation, warehousing, picking up, packing, forecasting inventory, order fulfillment, packaging, and freight forwarding.
Working with a 3PL provider should be treated as a partnership instead of a transactional relationship.
3PLs and Packaging
The right 3PL will do the right packing analysis and know the best packing materials to use, shipping box sizes, and the overall shipment strategy to cut costs.
Here are some common packing materials:
- Bubble mailers
- Dunnage
- Packing tape
- Shipping boxes
To maximize shipping rates, air should be removed as much possible. Otherwise, you’ll only be paying for air. The shipment box should be cut down, or there should be a strategy that allows stacking items in freight. This is crucial and gives the best rates.
