Any business can benefit from a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, especially in an age where supply chain management is of paramount importance. But some industries especially thrive by partnering with a 3PL provider. Here are some of today’s top 3PL industries and how they benefit from a logistics service.
Electronics Manufacturers and Distributors
Electronics manufacturers and distributors can rely on 3PL providers to assist with inventory management, order fulfillment, and the reverse logistics needed for customer returns and exchanges.
As a result, electronics businesses gain access to an affordable, efficient distribution network, allowing them to scale their operations without the need to invest in additional staffing or infrastructure.
Cosmetics Makers
Cosmetics companies commonly deal with large numbers of SKUs. A 3PL provider can help with inventory management to keep products organized, along with picking, packing, and distribution services to ensure that the right products go to the right customers.
But the best 3PL companies can also offer packaging services that reflect the manufacturer’s unique brand. And some go the extra mile by offering “kitting” services that package related products together, making it easy for customers to complete their purchase.
These value-added services make cosmetics one of the best 3PL industries of today.
Pharmaceutical Companies
Pharmaceutical manufacturers and distributors also make ideal 3PL industries. That’s because, like any medical industry, pharmaceutical companies depend on rapid, timely shipping, as well as storage and packaging that protects the integrity of their products.
For example, medications like insulin demand temperature regulation during both storage and distribution. A 3PL provider can ensure safe, on-time delivery of these products while tracking data so distributors can maintain control of their inventory.
Trade Show Transportation
Many trade show participants are great 3PL industries in and of themselves. But trade show transportation also demands a 3PL provider to haul furniture, signage, AV equipment, and other essential items to a location.
More importantly, a 3PL company can also provide tracking information so participating companies can coordinate their efforts, which makes for more efficient set-up and tear-down before and after the event.
Large and Small Retailers
One of the most popular 3PL industries is retail. No matter the size of your retail business, 3PL providers can offer solutions to help you manage inventory, store excess inventory, and even offer e-commerce fulfillment so you can give your brick-and-mortar location the advantages of online retail.
Additionally, a 3PL provider can offer inventory management solutions to help you adapt to cyclical sales patterns and seasonal demand. This ensures that you always have just the right amount of inventory and can scale your business without increasing your headcount.
Industrial Machinery
Industrial machinery, such as manufacturing or construction equipment, requires special attention and transportation due to its large size and intended use.
A 3PL provider can provide the necessary trucking and loading equipment to handle industrial machines. And the tracking system can ensure that equipment reaches the job site on time to improve efficiency.
Manufacturers
Manufacturing companies require 3PL services to handle their inventory and distribution network. This is especially important for manufacturers who sell their products to other businesses and distributors.
By partnering with a 3PL provider, manufacturers can keep their warehousing and inventory costs to a minimum, lowering the expenses associated with making their products.
Restaurant Equipment and Supplies
Restaurants are also among the top 3PL industries. Even small restaurants can rely on a 3PL provider to help with storing excess inventory or supplies and make these materials readily available as demand increases.
As a result, restaurants gain access to a steady supply of essential ingredients while maintaining an inventory of out-of-season items. And with a variety of refrigerated storage solutions, these ingredients are always kept at peak freshness.
Aerospace Industry
The aerospace industry is easily among the most advanced 3PL industries. By partnering with a 3PL provider, aerospace corporations can clear away excess inventory and equipment, freeing up manufacturing space for larger projects.
Completed projects can also be shipped using a 3PL provider, which offers the equipment necessary to load and transport large items or sensitive machinery.
Solutions for Any Industry
3PL providers offer flexible solutions for a range of industries. By tapping into these innovative solutions, your company can achieve greater flexibility and customer satisfaction.
