Logistics and supply chain management are paramount for any manufacturing company. These are complex systems that require expert, tailored solutions. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers offer that expertise — and the right one can ensure your operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Finding the right 3PL is a strategic move that can benefit your business. But selecting the right partner for your business is key.

 

Three crucial things to look for in a 3PL

3PLs are not one-size-fits-all. Look for a logistics provider that offers the exact services you need and is willing to work with you as an expert partner. 3PLs should alleviate the pressures of supply chain management, allowing businesses to focus on their end product and customer. Look for the following three characteristics when choosing a 3PL provider:

1. Expertise
2. Partnership
3. Adaptability

 

Expertise

Choose a 3PL partner who is an expert in your industry. If a cold chain environment is crucial to your product’s lifespan and longevity, ensure the 3PL you work with not only understands that importance but can offer insights into how to enhance your operations and improve your customer’s experience. In addition, inquire if a 3PL can assist with state distribution licensing. A 3PL partner with expertise in this area can streamline licensing and renewals in states where products are already distributed or where there are planned expansions.

In a regulated industry such as healthcare, look for a 3PL partner with extensive regulatory expertise to ensure compliance with all laws and industry regulations. For example, pharmaceutical 3PLs like LogiCare3PL have expertise in the pharmaceutical supply chain, so their operations are aligned with Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) regulations to ensure compliance and mitigate potential risks related to product contamination, adulteration, or compromised quality.

Large 3PLs will undoubtedly work with a variety of industries. Finding an experienced 3PL that specializes in your niche offers a higher level of trust and service. LogiCare3PL has a tenured team of professionals with experience at both large and small 3PLs.

 

Partnership

A 3PL should be your partner. When deciding to outsource your supply chain, consider who you want to work with and what that relationship looks like. Ensure the 3PL partner you choose has the same values, goals, and outlook that you have for your company, products, and services. Manufacturers and 3PLs work very closely together, so sharing a similar work culture can make the relationship run smoothly — and be more enjoyable for both parties.

A true partner will get to know the manufacturer’s business so they can offer innovative and tailored solutions and insights. 3PLs that prioritize partnerships with their clients will take a consultative approach and work to tailor their services to the customer’s specific needs. This should include understanding the needs of specialty products and providing customized solutions to fit those needs. For example, a pharmaceutical 3PL will understand the importance of product integrity and will clearly outline how they regulate temperatures across the supply chain and their backup plan in case of failure.

 

Adaptability

When needs change, your 3PL should be able to accommodate those requirements. In today’s market, circumstances shift quickly and supply chains can get disrupted, but that doesn’t mean the end customer should suffer. A 3PL that is nimble and flexible manages the supply chain and offers innovative solutions, allowing businesses to focus on providing their customers with quality products. LogiCare3PL takes a proactive approach, solving problems for their clients before they arise and considering alternative solutions to supply chain challenges to ensure reliable product fulfillment.

 

Benefits of a 3PL

While finding the right 3PL partner can be a process, the benefits cannot be overstated. Not only can a 3PL help you streamline your operations and increase efficiency across the supply chain, but it can ultimately help you grow your business. Choose a 3PL provider that can offer the following benefits to your program:

1. Cost Savings
2. Scalability
3. Expert Insights

 

Cost savings

Engaging a 3PL allows companies to invest time and money back into their business instead of the warehouses, trucks, and technology that are required for logistics to run smoothly. Businesses can spend time on their core competencies rather than complex logistics setups. And, 3PLs have the relationships and volume to negotiate competitive rates, which are passed on to businesses.

 

Scalability

3PL partners can handle scaling warehouse space, transportation, and labor quickly and easily. Whether it’s seasonal demand or industry fluctuations, 3PLs can make the necessary adjustments to ensure product fulfillment without the inefficiencies of wasted warehouse space. With that taken care of, businesses can open operations in new regions, launch new products, or grow their existing product volume without the worry of scaling the logistics operations with it.

 

Expert insights

Supply chain logistics are complex and come with many challenges, especially in the pharmaceutical industry. A 3PL partner can offer support, experience, and knowledge around common challenges and give insight into solving or mitigating them. Many pharmaceutical companies have regulatory and compliance concerns, which the right 3PL can ease. LogiCare3PL’s operations are DSCSA compliant, aligned with cGMP regulations, and offer licensing and regulatory services with an in-house quality and regulatory expert.

3PL partners play a critical role in the businesses that rely on them. Logistics and supply chain management are the backbone of product-led businesses.

 

Find a third-party logistics provider with industry expertise and innovative solutions. LogiCare3PL, a BioCare company, develops tailored third-party logistics solutions to meet your ever-changing needs in the rapidly changing world of healthcare. Discover how we can help you and get in touch.