Getting a product from point A to point B seems deceivingly simple. However, the process can require quite a bit of juggling due to the amount of moving parts in transportation. Warehousing and order fulfillment require a lot of the time, effort, and money. Therefore, many shippers are choosing to outsource their key functions to third-party partners who offer logistics value-added services. Third-party logistics providers (3PLs) will optimize your supply chain and give you a competitive advantage.
Covid has caused widespread uncertainty in the industry. Therefore, it is critical to find a partner with the appropriate experience and top-of-the-line resources. A strong partner can help you overcome supply chain disruptions and maintain efficient shipping operations. As consumer demand fluctuates, the delivery window shrinks, and ecommerce soars, value-added services will give your business a competitive edge.
Common logistics value-added services
3PLs offer a variety of value-added services. Therefore, you should familiarize yourself with the most common services before deciding on a partner. The below services will help you optimize your supply chain.
1. Kitting
Kitting involves assembling related items together into a kit ahead of time based on their SKU numbers. Therefore, they’re ready to be shipped. This value-added service offers a faster, more convenient alternative for shippers. Additionally, kitting reduces the risk of errors, improves inventory management, and increases production efficiency.
2. Labeling and repacking
Professional labeling services help companies ensure industry compliance, increase accuracy and continuity, and enhance their branding. Repacking solutions optimize the packaging process by removing products from ill-fitting material. Then, they place them in more cost-effective containers to mitigate risks and transportation costs.
3. Reverse logistics
Reverse logistics occurs when products are moved back in the supply chain for returns, recalls, recycling, recovery, or disposals. An order fulfillment partner can help you streamline your reverse logistics. Therefore, you keep your customers satisfied, improve your profit margins, and eliminate unnecessary waste.
4. Quality control and compliance
Third-party logistics partners that offer quality control product inspections can protect your brand by fixing mistakes before they make it to market. Additional compliance assurance solutions can also simplify complex import/export documentation. Therefore, you can effectively meet local and international shipping standards and prevent potential supply chain disruptions.
5. Cross-docking
Cross-docking services reduce handling times, inventory levels, and labor costs by consolidating and sorting products before they’re loaded onto an outbound truck. This value-added service saves shippers a lot of time and money by only using one truck. This service also lowers the chances of your product being damaged in transit.
Consider outsourcing some of your logistics functions if you’re unable to manage your shipping operations entirely on your own. 3PLs will provide value-added services, allowing you to focus on the other aspects of your business.
About O’Neill Logistics
O’Neill Logistics is a leading 3PL with operations in Rancho Cucamonga, CA; Savannah, GA; and Newark/Monroe, NJ. We service many verticals including Garments, Fashion Accessories, Footwear, Furniture, Home Goods, & Electronics. Additionally, our services include omni-channel distribution and all value-added services. Lastly, we focus on retail “drop shipment” fulfillment and item-level fulfillment services with same-day service offerings.
We have over 2 million square feet which are all state-of-the-art facilities, offer dray services to support the warehouses, and handle distribution to retailers and wholesalers. We aim to simplify your supply chain by delivering exceptional service and optimizing your operational performance. Our experience team will provide you with the solutions you need to gain a competitive advantage.
