Wednesday, May 30, 2012

The Different Types Of 3PL Providers

By Paulette Hart


Third party management specialists or 3PL providers are logistics firms that work for various types of customers. Marketing demands of a particular customer will usually determine what type of specialist is involved with the production and procurement of merchandises. In some cases, a specialized type of logistics firm will be needed in order for extensive services to be implemented.

The management workers involved are able to integrate different forms of services. Customization is usually an option since it may be necessary for the services to fit the customer's marketing demands. There are different forms of firms available and some may be more profitable to customers than others.

The most basic and easily available service can be expected from a standard logistics firm. Activities are limited too warehousing and distribution. Some firms will also be able to handle the pick and pack if necessary. Those services are the most basic forms expected from a specific firm in this category.

Service developers are much more advanced are very focused on the economic and security aspects of logistics. Workers are usually equipped with a solid foundation in economics and IT which is very beneficial to their customers. Beyond what is expected from a standard firm, service developers also implement tracking and tracing, cross-docking and security services for their customers.

Adapters and developers of the highest form are providers that have a very small customer base. This has nothing to do with their quality but more to do with the activities performed. Extensive and detailed management is required from workers of this firm since they will have complete control of a customer's logistic activities.

3pl providers may also be affiliated with 2PL firms in certain circumstances. Usually this occurs when a courier company owns several airplanes or when a shipping line owns a freight forwarder that owns several trucks and/or warehouse. Making a choice among service firms will depend on the customer's potential financial benefit. A 3PL firm will be willing to negotiate or recommend particular services.




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