Some Differences Between A 3PL and Freight Industry
Suppose you decide to use a 3PL company for your shipment. In that case, you should be aware that there is a love-hate relationship between 3PL and freight carriers, which may harm your business if you do not take the necessary steps to mitigate the impact it can cause. Being in the transportation industry, I am aware that 3PL companies are held in low regard by freight carriers. Carriers are generally more stringent when inspecting 3PL freight than any other freight. I’ve seen this in the industry firsthand, and while it may seem strange to most people, it’s a reality that should never be overlooked. If you’ve been in the industry for a while, you’ll notice that it’s no longer a secret. Because 3PL has become a necessity for any large business these days, most carriers regard 3PL as competitors rather than customers; however, due to the business model and utility of 3PL, carriers will never be able to outperform them at what they do. Visit wickerparklogistics.com and get to understand more.
Not all carriers have this attitude, and you may come across one that is gentle with the 3PL, and some of them have even joined hands with the 3PL and implemented the same business model as a 3PL.
As a customer, you must ensure that you take special considerations before selecting a 3PL that they have a good reputation and respect in the market, particularly among carriers. Additionally, you must ensure that the 3PL keeps everything in mind when shipping. For example, the weight and product description should be 100 percent accurate. You should communicate with the 3PL provider about this and make them as informed and organized as possible so that the carrier does not cause any problems. Although most 3PL are already experts in their work and you don’t need to tell them most of the things, it is still worth it to have a long discussion about essential matters.
Carriers offer low-cost rates to 3PLs, but they must balance this with stringent scrutiny; they do not offer low-cost rates to gain more business from 3PLs. You must have your best man as a sales representative to communicate with the 3PL; having a well-educated and intelligent person as your sales representative and having a good relationship with him can help you a lot. He may be able to provide you with information that you would never be able to obtain otherwise.
Although freight companies give 3PL companies a hard time, it is a fact that they both need each other and give each other a lot of business, so as a customer, you must ensure that you get the services of a 3PL that is well-reputed and respected in the industry.
