What is a 3PL company?

Partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) company can seriously simplify your business operations. Instead of stressing over picking, packing, and shipping, they take care of it all. You can store your products in their warehouse, so you don’t have to worry about investing in your own space or infrastructure. This gives you more time and energy to focus on what really matters—growing your business. It's a smart move that lets you focus on the big picture while they handle the details!

What do 3PL companies do?

So, what exactly do 3PL companies do? They offer a variety of fulfillment services designed to meet the needs of sellers. Whether it’s direct-to-consumer (DTC) or business-to-business (B2B) order processing, 3PLs use advanced tech and automation to make everything run smoothly. Plus, they’ve got experienced teams at their fulfillment centers to handle the heavy lifting for you.

Common services offered by 3PLs include:

• Integration Support: Assisting e-commerce merchants with setting up and using their technology effectively.
• Inventory Management: Everything from receiving it to storing it and tracking stock levels for you.
• Order Fulfillment: They handle the picking, packing, and shipping of your orders, whether it’s to your customers or other businesses.
• Shipping Coordination: Make sure you’re getting the best rates and your orders are shipped out on time.
• Kitting Services: Assembling products and preparing custom items.
• Returns Handling: So you don’t have to worry about processing them yourself.
• Inventory Distribution: Moving stock around or cross-docking to improve efficiency.
• Warehousing Solutions: They organize the warehouse and handle hiring and training the staff who take care of fulfillment.

All these services come together to make things run more efficiently, saving you time and helping keep your customers happy.

What to look for in a 3PL company

1. Global network of fulfillment centers

One of the best things about teaming up with a 3PL is their massive network of fulfillment centers worldwide. These warehouses are placed in key locations, meaning you can store your products closer to your customers, which speeds up shipping and cuts down on costs. 

When looking at different 3PL options, check out their number of centers and where they’re located. Think about where you want to grow in the future, too. A solid 3PL will help you determine the best spots for your inventory based on your customers' locations.

2. Intuitive software

The software the 3PL uses is a big part of making things run smoothly. You’ll want something that gives you real-time updates on your orders, inventory, shipping costs, and more, all in one place. 

Look for a 3PL that offers a functional but also easy-to-use system. The best ones have tools to manage orders and inventory efficiently, plus some helpful data insights. This will make tracking everything super simple and keep your business running like a well-oiled machine.

3. A vast partner network

When you’re running an e-commerce business, logistics usually involves many different pieces—like packaging, marketing, and finance. That’s where a 3PL with a solid network comes in handy. 

If they have great connections across different sectors, they can offer useful recommendations and advice that make your life easier. Plus, their extensive network means they can provide insights that help you tackle common challenges and make your operations smoother.

4. Shipping discounts

One of the best things about working with a 3PL is the potential for shipping discounts. Because they handle so many shipments, they can score better rates with big carriers like FedEx, UPS, USPS, and DHL. This could mean significant savings for you! 

Just make sure you’re aware of all the costs involved and ask about any hidden fees. Some 3PLs charge for every little service, while others keep things transparent regarding receiving, warehousing, and shipping fees.

5. Integrations and APIs

Integrations are crucial when managing orders. You’ll want a 3PL that can easily sync with your e-commerce platform so that order details are transferred automatically between your store and its fulfillment centers. 

It’s great if they work with platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, or WooCommerce and support big marketplaces like Amazon and eBay. And if they offer open APIs, that’s even better—you can really tailor things to fit your specific needs.

6. Customer service

Having solid customer service is a must when you’re working with a 3PL. You’ll want to make sure they offer support through whatever channels work best for you—whether that’s email, live chat, or over the phone. 

If you’re dealing with a lot of orders, it might be worth asking if they have dedicated support or account managers who can give you more personalized help. The right support can really keep your business running smoothly.

7. 2-day shipping

Offering fast shipping options is key to staying ahead of the competition. A 3PL that offers 2-day shipping can be a game-changer, especially for orders going to nearby locations. 

This means you can offer fast delivery at checkout, and your customers will see the 2-day option based on where they’re located. Quick shipping makes your customers happy and helps reduce cart abandonment since everyone loves a speedy delivery.

8. Returns

A solid 3PL makes handling returns much easier for your e-commerce business. You’ll want one that automates inventory management to speed up the process. 

Look for features like prepaid return labels and regular updates for your customers on where their returns stand—it keeps things smooth for them and helps build trust. You can choose what level of return service fits your needs, whether it’s a simple process or something more involved, like refurbishing items or sending returns directly to your location.

Top 7 3PL Companies

1. Ship With Mina

Looking for reliable logistics? Ship With Mina has you covered. They offer a global fulfillment system that works for both direct-to-consumer (DTC) and business-to-business (B2B) needs. With their strong connections in factory networks and top-notch engineering, Mina brings innovation and quality to the table.

Tailored Strategies‍

What we love about Mina is how they tailor everything to your business. They don’t just offer generic solutions; they dig into the data to give you insights that really fit your goals and help you make smart decisions.

Cost Optimization‍

Mina’s all about getting you the best bang for your buck. They know how to balance quality and cost perfectly, helping you run an efficient operation without breaking the bank.

Customized Market Solutions‍

They don’t just help you sell—they help you stand out. Mina ensures your products meet customer demands, helping to build loyalty and boost satisfaction, which translates to more sales.

Streamlined Integration‍

Getting Mina set up with your existing e-commerce platform is a breeze. Their process is smooth and doesn’t cause major disruptions, so you can save time and keep things running without a hitch.

AI-Powered Fulfillment‍

Mina uses AI to speed up order processing and make everything more accurate. They handle orders same-day and ship them fast, reducing errors and making customers happy.

Flexible Shipping Solutions‍

Mina offers several flexible shipping options at competitive rates so you can meet your customers’ needs while keeping costs low.

2. ShipBob

Looking for a reliable DTC fulfillment provider? ShipBob could be exactly what you need. They partner with many e-commerce brands to help manage inventory, streamline packaging, speed up shipping, and ensure customer satisfaction.

Fulfillment Center Network‍

One of the best things about ShipBob is their huge network of fulfillment centers all over the U.S. They’re always adding new locations, which means they can store your inventory closer to your customers, cutting down on shipping costs and getting orders out way faster. You can start small with one warehouse and grow as your business expands, which is pretty awesome.

Intuitive Software Platform‍

Their platform is super easy to use. You’ll be able to track everything from sales to inventory, and their advanced reporting features help you understand what’s working and where you can improve. You’ll know exactly what’s selling, how fast it’s moving, and what shipping options your customers prefer.

Partnership Ecosystem‍

What’s really cool about ShipBob is how well they work with other partners. Whether it’s marketing, tax services, returns management, or customer support, they have a whole network of partners ready to help you grow in every area of your business.

Shipping Discounts‍

ShipBob gets great shipping rates with carriers like USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL, so you’ll save big on domestic and international shipping. It’s a huge advantage compared to doing it all on your own.

Integration Capabilities‍

If you’re using Shopify, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, or Squarespace, you’re in luck because ShipBob integrates smoothly with all of them. And if you need something more custom, they offer API solutions to make everything even easier.

Customer Support‍

ShipBob’s customer support is top-notch. Whether you need help setting things up or ongoing assistance, you’ve got options. You’ll get phone and email support, and for larger businesses, they’ll even assign you a dedicated account manager to help with strategy and growth.

3. Red Stag

Red Stag Fulfillment is worth considering if you’re dealing with bulky or heavy items that need extra care during fulfillment. They specialize in managing products that are a bit out of the ordinary, so you don’t have to worry about the usual shipping challenges.

Warehouse Locations‍

Red Stag has two strategically located warehouses in the central region of the U.S. to maximize shipping efficiency. This setup ensures that your products get to customers quickly and without unnecessary delays.

User-Friendly Software‍

Their cloud-based software is super easy to use. It gives you access to everything you need—like inventory tracking and reports—right from any device. It makes staying on top of your business a breeze.

Partnering with Leading Platforms‍

Are you running your store on Shopify or Amazon? Red Stag integrates seamlessly with those platforms, and if you need something more customized, they have API solutions to tailor it to your specific needs.

Shipping Discounts‍

Shipping heavy or oversized products can be pricey, but Red Stag offers special discounts to help lower the costs. It’s a nice way to keep your fulfillment expenses in check without sacrificing service.

Customer Service‍

When it comes to customer support, Red Stag keeps it simple with phone support and email assistance. You’ll get quick answers and solutions, which are exactly what you want when running a business.

4. FedEx

FedEx is a giant in the logistics world, especially in the U.S., and it is known for its massive network of warehouses and shipping services. They’re a go-to for larger businesses that need reliable and fast fulfillment.

Diverse Warehouse Network‍

They’ve got a huge network of warehouses and sorting centers across the country, making it easier to get orders out fast, no matter where your customers are.

Enterprise-Level Software‍

Their software is designed for bigger businesses with more complex needs. It’s pretty easy to use and handles all the heavy logistics, so you don’t have to worry about managing it all yourself.

Wide Partner Network‍

FedEx doesn’t just handle shipping—it has many partnerships with other logistics services, which means you have more flexibility when customizing your logistics solutions.

Discount Opportunities‍

If you’re using FedEx regularly, you’ll get some nice shipping discounts, which can help lower your overall costs, especially when sending out a lot of orders.

Limited Integration Options‍

One thing to remember is that integrating FedEx with your e-commerce platform isn’t always easy. You’ll likely need a developer to help since they don’t have as many pre-built integrations as other 3PLs.

Customer Support Availability‍

When it comes to customer service, FedEx is available by phone during certain hours. They do offer email support, but it can be a bit slow. For quicker help, calling them is usually the way to go.

5. Rakuten

Rakuten Super Logistics makes managing inventory and shipping a lot easier for e-commerce businesses. They’re all about using modern tech to help you ship faster and more efficiently.

Fulfillment Centers‍

With five warehouses across the U.S., Rakuten helps you get your products to customers quickly, whether they're on the East or West Coast. Fast, coast-to-coast shipping is a huge plus!

Ease of Use‍

Their cloud-based software is super easy to use. You can manage everything, from inventory to orders, all in one place without any hassle. It's designed to save you time and effort.

Technology-Driven Solutions‍

Rakuten’s tech-driven approach makes tracking your inventory and analyzing your performance a breeze. It’s all about boosting efficiency and making sure you can make informed decisions with real-time data.

Shipping Discounts‍

They offer competitive shipping rates that help you keep costs down while maintaining a high level of service, making them a great option for e-commerce businesses.

Customer Support‍

Rakuten’s customer support is dedicated to ensuring you get the help you need. They’re all about creating strong, lasting partnerships with their clients and providing timely assistance when you need it.

6. Fulfyld

Fulfyld really shines when it comes to flexibility. They offer tailored logistics services that fit your unique needs, whether you're just getting started or growing fast. 

Scalability Options‍

One of the things we love about Fulfyld is that it lets you scale at your own pace. As your orders and market reach grow, they adjust to keep up, making sure you don’t miss a beat.

Advanced Technology‍

Fulfyld uses some awesome tech to keep things running smoothly. You’ll get real-time updates, so you always know where things stand with your inventory and orders. It’s all about transparency and making the process as efficient as possible.

Integration Support‍

There is no need to worry about compatibility—Fulfyld integrates easily with several e-commerce platforms, making logistics management seamless and less of a headache for retailers.

Customer-Centric Approach‍

What really stands out about Fulfyld is their customer-first attitude. They take the time to understand your business and goals, offering personalized support that feels more like a partnership than just a service. It’s like having a logistics team that’s got your back!

7. Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA)

If you're looking to tap into Amazon’s massive logistics network, FBA is an absolute game-changer. It’s perfect for businesses that want to reach a huge audience quickly with minimal effort.

Utilizing Amazon's Infrastructure‍

Here’s how it works: you send your products to Amazon’s fulfillment centers, and they take care of everything else—storage, packing, and shipping. It’s like outsourcing your logistics to the pros.

Prime Eligibility‍

A huge perk of using FBA is that your products get Prime eligibility. This means your items are available to millions of Amazon Prime members, which can seriously boost your visibility and sales.

Cost Structure‍

There are some costs involved, like storage and fulfillment fees, but the potential for increased sales through Amazon usually makes up for it. You get to focus on growing your business while Amazon handles logistics.

Ease of Use‍

Setting up with FBA is super easy. With Amazon’s platform, you can get started without a hitch, and their experience in the logistics game makes it smooth sailing.

Comprehensive Support‍

And if you ever run into issues? Amazon has a great customer support team that’s there to help you out. It’s like having logistics experts on your side every step of the way.

Why Ship with Mina is the #1 3PL for Growing DTC Brands

1. Global Connections & Industry Know-How

Working with Ship with Mina means tapping into a powerful global network. Whether you’re handling direct-to-consumer or business-to-business logistics, their expertise ensures that your products move smoothly from storage to delivery, wherever they need to go.

2. Customized Insights for Your Needs

Mina doesn’t just offer a generic solution; they tailor everything to fit your business. They dig deep into your operations to find the best fulfillment strategies for your specific needs.

3. Bespoke Services for Every Brand

No matter what size your business is, Mina’s has flexible options to match. They understand that no two brands are the same, so they offer services that grow with you and adapt as your business evolves.

4. Smooth System Adoption

The best part? Getting started with Mina is super easy. Their integration process is seamless, so you won’t have to deal with long setup times or disruptions to your daily operations. You can jump right in and start seeing results.

5. Smart Fulfillment Powered by AI

Mina is all about using the latest tech to keep things running smoothly. Their AI-driven fulfillment process makes sure everything is fast, accurate, and efficient. It’s like having a logistics team working around the clock to keep things on track.

6. Diverse Shipping Choices

You get a ton of shipping options with Mina, so you can choose what works best for your customers and your brand. Whether you want speed or savings, they’ve got flexible solutions to help you meet your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About 3PL Companies.

What do 3PL companies offer?‍

3PL companies offer a range of services designed to make your eCommerce operations smoother. These include inventory management, warehousing, and order fulfillment. Essentially, they provide the tools and systems to streamline the way your products move from storage to the customer.

What advantages come with using a 3PL?‍

Partnering with a 3PL offers plenty of advantages, like:

• Enhanced Growth: You get access to advanced logistics resources and expertise, helping you scale your business without the headaches.
• Comprehensive Logistics Support: A 3PL takes care of everything—from keeping track of inventory to handling shipping—so you can focus on other important areas of your business. 
• Cost Efficiency: With their discounted shipping rates and data insights, you’ll save some serious cash in the long run, helping your business stay profitable.

What are the costs associated with 3PL services?‍

The costs for 3PL services can vary greatly depending on the provider. It’s key to make sure your provider is transparent about its pricing. For example, companies like Ship with Mina break down their costs clearly so you know exactly what you’re paying for—from receiving and storage to picking, packing, packaging, and shipping. Always ensure you understand all the fees upfront to avoid surprises.