Think you know Third-Party Logistics (3PL)? Let’s bust some common 3PL myths!
Logistics often operates behind the scenes, so many individuals are unfamiliar with the industry and its operations. Because of this, there can be some misconceptions about how a 3PL operates and interacts with businesses.
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.
