Logistics and transportation play a vital role in every SME that has a product to sell. Supply chain management (SCM) in the business world is a complex and intricate process that's crucial to get right, every time. It takes extensive coordination and planning to ensure that your business is able to react both quickly and cost-effectively to supply issues, whether they be related to your product, information, or finances. Get a kink in your chain and you can create unhappy customers and lose your competitive advantage.
Forget the headache. Here's why you should consider outsourcing an SCM function to a third-party logistics service (3PL):
You can focus on your core competency Handing off some of the functions of your supply chain to a company with extensive experience and resources frees up your time to focus on what you do best - creating, curating and selling your products. Leave shipping and handling to the experts and focus on market research and growing your business.
You save money
Why? Your third-party logistics service deals in such a high volume that they're able to negotiate amazing rates with carriers and pass those savings onto you. In essence, they do the dirty work and let you reap the rewards. No wonder an estimated 80% of Fortune 500 companies and 96 Fortune 100 companies use 3PL services in some form or fashion. Not only that, but you also don't have to invest a ton of capital in setting up a distribution infrastructure.
It's easy to use
With a 3PL, you have access to the best online platforms that are able to effectively streamline the supply chain through advanced software programs that usually include Cloud integrated platforms. These user-friendly tools handle complex logistics without you even knowing it, while continually being updated and improved upon. According to Supply Chain 247, 3PLs with cutting-edge systems can give you real-time feedback on your freight and supply chain operations. Talk about a huge weight lifted off your shoulders!
You can quickly scale up or down
Quickly and efficiently scale up during peak times such as the holidays when your supply chain can become overtaxed or if necessary, scale down. 3PLs have the space, labor, and transportation options readily available to meet your demands. A 3PL is there to help drive the process and give your business the extra support and flexibility it needs.
Want a consultation to learn what else a 3PL can do for your business? Book a demo with us and we'd be delighted to discuss how we can help you grow.
