It might be difficult to outsource your logistics. There are no shortage of third-party logistics (3PL) companies to choose from, but how do you choose the right one for your needs? The choice between them may seem difficult, but with the appropriate information, you can make the best choice.
In order to find a reliable freight forwarder or third-party logistics provider, many consumers turn to their network for recommendations. The solution still could not be tailor-made for your company, even if that’s the case. If that’s the case, you should search online for “freight forwarder” or any other similar keyword to get a plethora of relevant results.
Whether or not you have recommendations, the initial step in locating a freight forwarder for you still requires careful consideration of a number of critical variables. To assist you to make this procedure as flawless as possible, we’ll examine seven key areas in this post.
Authenticity and Proven Track Record
Finding a trustworthy freight forwarder is essential since logistics is the backbone of many organisations. Having a logistics partner that isn’t up to snuff is useless if you have important material to transport.
The Capacity for Expansion
It’s reasonable to assume that expansion plans are integral to the strategies of the vast majority of businesses. Consider your anticipated growth when deciding on a freight forwarder company or third-party logistics (3PL) service to work with. If this is critical to your company, it should play a major role in your decision-making.
Inquire for reliable client examples demonstrating how they have previously done this for other relevant customers to assist you to choose which 3PLs may be able to scale up with you.
Technology Used
To keep tabs on your shipments in real-time, search for a 3PL that uses cutting-edge technology and offers track-and-trace capabilities as part of their normal service. PO Management is a more sophisticated solution that requires the participation of your suppliers in order to update a central platform, although it may be unnecessary for your organisation.
Inquire as to the WMS they use and the depth of reporting they can provide. Reporting automation, including weekly stock reports in CSV format, allows simple import into an existing in-house enterprise resource planning (ERP) or stock management system.
In order to increase productivity, you should search for a freight forwarder or third-party logistics provider that places a premium on innovation and flexibility. That their tools are compatible with your current infrastructure is also crucial.
Flexibility
The most effective freight forwarder providers tailor their offerings to meet the particular requirements of each individual client. A freight forwarder / 3PL partner that understands and caters to your company’s specific needs may act as an extension of your operations, much like an extra logistics team, and aid in the implementation of your plan for effective expansion.
Case studies might be a useful indicator of the provider’s collaboration style with its present clients. Don’t be shy about asking for references from satisfied customers.
Conferencing that is both Strong and Communicative
It is essential that your freight forwarder, warehouse, or 3PL maintain open lines of contact with you. Long distances and transit periods, as well as different transport options, increase the likelihood of difficulties and delays for your shipment. Keep in mind that your freight forwarder probably won’t be able to prevent these things from happening, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be prepared for them.
It is optimal to use many channels of communication simultaneously. For instance, their track-and-trace system will send you automated email notifications and you’ll only need to deal with one point of contact at the firm to handle your cargo and system integration. When dependable services like these are in place, you know your precious cargo is safe.