Expanding Your Network with a 3PL
3PL partners offer logistics services and supply chain management. They are logistics experts, specifically; warehousing, picking and packing, inventory management, transportation, fulfillment, packaging, and returns management. Because of the focused nature of a 3PL, they typically have a broad network of partners related to all aspects of the logistics industry. How can you expand your network with a 3PL?
Transportation Network
3PLs have relationships with multiple carriers across the transportation industry. They have partnerships with various van lines, shipping, freight carriers, and rail lines. While an individual eCommerce business might have a personal connection to one or two carriers, a 3PL has numerous. What this means for your business is that you instantly access this broader network of transportation providers. Why this is important: If flooding in Missouri prevents travel through a crucial interchange, your 3PL can pivot to other providers and routes to ensure the shortest delay possible.
Legal
A viable rats nest of legal concerns surround logistics, especially when you involve international shipments. This includes complicated issues like documentation, import and export regulations, as well as economic regulations. Hiring or investigating the nuances of international logistic law is time-consuming and expensive. One of the most cost-effective ways to expand your legal network is through partnering with a 3PL. A 3PL already has the expertise and relationships to comply with local, federal, and international laws. Your 3PL will have a pulse on the ever-changing legal fulfillment battles—especially those tricky wine and beer fulfillment issues.
Expand to New Locations
Expanding your eCommerce reach to new locations is daunting when you don’t have an on-the-ground expert helping you. When you consider trying to expand to new locations, you start by evaluating the market, estimating inventory needs, training staff, and sourcing suppliers and distributors. It is a very involved process. A 3PL expands your network by aiding in providing staff, multi-site distribution space, and flexible warehousing space as your reach grows. Not only that, but 3PL companies have a broad network of suppliers they work with and can make mutually beneficial introductions.
Returns Management
One of the greatest deterrents to gaining loyal customers is a lack of responsive customer service or a complex returns process. While most businesses would like to avoid returns altogether, having a solid return management process is crucial. Some of the best 3PL partnerships help manage the returns process, including receiving, returning items to the inventory management system, and disposing of damaged goods. 3PLs are experts in streamlining the returns process and ensuring a good customer experience.
Expanding your network with a 3PL is one of the most cost-effective ways to scale a growing eCommerce. From helping streamline transportation to ensuring legal compliance, a partnership with a 3PL will be crucial if you don’t already have a broad network of relationships in those industries. Falcon Fulfillment has established relationships across transportation, legal, marketing, and a multi-site distribution framework. We are poised and ready to help you expand your network and business! Get in touch with one of our agents today.
