Freight Glossary
3PL (Third-Party Logistics (3PL)) – Meaning & Examples
A company that provides outsourced logistics services including transportation, warehousing, and fulfillment.
- Abbreviation
- 3PL
- Full term
- Third-Party Logistics (3PL)
- Related terms
- 3PL, third party logistics, logistics outsourcing, fulfillment provider
Third-Party Logistics (3PL) refers to outsourcing logistics and supply chain management functions to an external provider. 3PL companies offer a wide range of services including transportation, warehousing, pick and pack, inventory management, order fulfillment, and freight forwarding. By using 3PLs, businesses can focus on their core competencies while benefiting from the logistics expertise, technology, and scale of specialized providers.
Third-Party Logistics (3PL) examples
- An e-commerce company uses a 3PL to store inventory, pick and pack orders, and ship to customers nationwide.
How 3PL is used in freight operations
3PL appears in quotations, bookings, shipping documents, and tracking updates. Confirm how it applies to your shipment with your carrier, forwarder, or customs representative, because practice can differ by country and contract.
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Frequently asked questions
What is 3PL?
A company that provides outsourced logistics services including transportation, warehousing, and fulfillment.
What does 3PL stand for?
3PL stands for Third-Party Logistics (3PL).
What is an example of 3PL?
An e-commerce company uses a 3PL to store inventory, pick and pack orders, and ship to customers nationwide.