Think you know Third-Party Logistics (3PL)? Let’s bust some common 3PL myths! Read more to learn how to separate fact from fiction so you can make smarter logistics decisions.
Myth #1 – 3PLs Are Only for Big Businesses
Myth: Only large enterprises benefit from outsourcing fulfillment.
Fact: Businesses of all sizes—including startups, small eCommerce brands, and growing retailers—use 3PLs to reduce costs, improve shipping speeds, and scale efficiently.
Myth #2 – Using a 3PL Means Losing Control
Myth: If I outsource fulfillment, I won’t have visibility into my inventory or operations.
Fact: Modern 3PLs provide real-time inventory tracking, automated reporting, and full transparency, so you stay in control while reducing logistics headaches.
Myth #3 – 3PLs Are Too Expensive
Myth: Managing fulfillment in-house is always more cost-effective than outsourcing.
Fact: 3PLs reduce costs through shipping discounts, carrier partnerships, optimized warehousing, and automation, often making fulfillment more affordable than handling it internally.
Myth #4 – 3PLs Only Handle Warehousing
Myth: A 3PL just stores inventory and ships orders.
Fact: Top-tier 3PLs offer additional services like kitting, bulk shipping, returns management, specialized packaging, and subscription fulfillment solutions.
Myth #5 – Switching to a 3PL Is Complicated & Time-Consuming
Myth: Integrating with a 3PL takes too much effort and will disrupt my business.
Fact: The best 3PLs offer seamless onboarding, eCommerce platform integrations, and dedicated support teams to ensure a smooth transition.
The Truth About 3PLs
- Save time & reduce operational costs so you can focus on growing your business
- Improve shipping speeds & customer satisfaction by leveraging the 3PL’s carrier partnerships
- Scale your business without logistics headaches like warehouse leasing and seasonal labor needs
- Gain real-time inventory visibility & control from advanced warehouse management systems (WMS)
- Access additional services beyond storage & shipping such as custom packaging and kitting
Have another common 3PL myth to challenge? Contact us today!
Read more on CBO Solutions’ LinkedIn.
