Sedat Onat
- Dec 8, 2023
- 3 min read

3PL - Third Party Logistics

3PL - What is Third Party Logistics?

3PL - Third Party Logistics is the transfer of logistics and supply chain operations, which are not a company's main business, to an external service provider. This may include shipping, warehousing, inventory management, order processing, customs clearance and more. 3PL - Third Party Logistics Service Providers can generally manage these services in a more effective and cost-saving manner because they have their areas of expertise.

An example can be given for better understanding:

2PL: Transportation Services
3PL: Transportation Services + Stock Management + Handling

3PL - Scope of Third Party Logistics

Shipping and Transportation: Transportation, distribution and delivery of products.
Storage and Stock Management: Storage of products, inventory tracking and regular inventory management.
Order Processing and Distribution: Receiving, preparing and shipping customer orders.
Customs Clearance and International Logistics: International transportation and customs procedures.
Supply Chain Consultancy:Consultancy services to help businesses optimize their supply chains.

What are the Benefits of 3PL - Third Party Logistics?

Cost Savings: 3PL Service providers manage logistics operations more efficiently, providing businesses with savings in transportation, storage and inventory costs. Large-scale 3PL providers can achieve lower carrying costs by taking advantage of volume advantages.
Expertise and Resource Efficiency: 3PL Service providers specialize in logistics and have the latest technology. Businesses are relieved of the need to establish and operate their own logistics departments, so they can direct their resources to other areas.
Fast and Reliable Deliveries: 3PL Service providers increase customer satisfaction by providing faster and more reliable deliveries. This increases customer loyalty and provides competitive advantage.
Scalability: Businesses can easily scale 3PL services as their business volume grows. This increases their ability to quickly adapt to situations such as seasonal demand changes or market growth.
Better Inventory Management: 3PL providers are experts in regular tracking and management of inventory. By optimizing stock levels, they reduce overstock costs and better adapt to demand fluctuations.
International Logistics and Global Expansion: 3PL can offer international transportation and customs clearance services to Businesses, so they can easily expand into global markets. This creates access to new markets and growth opportunities.
Risk Mitigation: 3PL providers can reduce potential risks when managing supply chain operations. For example, they ensure preparedness for unexpected events such as natural disasters or supplier problems.
Better Customer Service: Fast deliveries, accurate order processing and low inventory levels enable us to better serve customers. It helps gain loyal customers by increasing customer satisfaction.
Data and Analytics: 3PL providers offer businesses the ability to make better decisions using data and analytics tools. This is an important tool for improving supply chain planning.

What are the Risks of 3PL - Third Party Logistics?

Loss of Control: When a business outsources its logistics operations to a 3PL provider, it may lose some degree of control. This can be a risk for those who want full control and visibility over the business's operations.
Data Security: Businesses provide customer information, inventory data, and other sensitive information to 3PL providers. If the security of this data is not ensured, there may be a risk of data breach.
Service Quality Issues: There is a risk that 3PL providers will not fulfill their commitment to provide transportation, storage and other logistics services for the business or there will be a decrease in service quality.
Cost Increase:Although 3PL services appear cost-effective at first glance, additional costs and fees that are not specified in the contracts (for example, additional storage fees) may arise.
Supply Chain Incompatibilities: When collaborating with a 3PL Provider, situations may arise where supply chain operations do not work harmoniously. This may result in the business not being able to meet customer demands or inventory issues.
Supply Chain Delays: Lack of communication or coordination issues with 3PL Providers may cause supply chain delays.
Dependency: The business may become too dependent on the 3PL provider. This can lead to serious operational problems if the 3PL provider discontinues or changes its services.
Contract Breach:Contract disputes or violations can negatively impact the relationship between the business and the 3PL provider.
Service Quality Changes: 3PL Providers may change or reduce service quality over time. The business may be vulnerable to such changes.