What does logistics outsourcing have to do with dating?
At first glance, not much, but when you think about it, there are some striking similarities.
In this video, I dive into what makes the two so alike.
Curious? Check it out below!
Outsourcing your logistics is a lot like dating. You’re not just looking for a provider—you’re searching for a long-term partner. Over the last 25 years, I’ve seen businesses struggle to find the right 3PL (third-party logistics) and, in some cases, fail completely.
To help you avoid the common pitfalls, here are a few practical tips to make the process smoother.
Neediness Makes You Less Attractive
When it comes to outsourcing, being overly demanding doesn’t make you an appealing partner. While certain industries, like pharmaceuticals or dangerous goods, require strict compliance, being unnecessarily demanding with reporting or overly controlling in how things are done can hurt your chances of building a strong partnership. Some 3PL clients want constant updates or get too involved in the day-to-day, which can frustrate the provider. Instead, focus on setting clear expectations and trust the 3PL to do their job. The easier you are to work with, the better your relationship will be.
Good Data is Non-Negotiable
Data is everything in logistics. If you want a 3PL to understand your business and give you an accurate proposal, you need to provide clear and complete information. This includes your product dimensions, weights, inventory profiles, demand history, and delivery details like frequency and locations. Transparency is critical. Don’t hide things like high return rates or tricky product requirements—they’ll find out eventually, and it’ll damage the relationship. A strong 3PL partnership starts with honesty and accurate data.
Your Contract Size Matters
The size of your contract has a big impact on which 3PLs will be interested. Larger 3PLs often won’t consider contracts under $5 million, so smaller businesses might need to focus on smaller providers. If your contract is very small, such as $200,000, you may need to ask whether outsourcing is worth it or if managing logistics in-house is a better option.
Treat outsourcing like a long-term relationship. Get your data in order, avoid unnecessary demands, and take your time to find the right partner. With the right 3PL, you’ll build a reliable, lasting partnership.
Related articles on this topic have appeared throughout our website, check them out:
- 6 Quick Tips for Successful Logistics Outsourcing
- Getting Aligned with Business Goals for Successful Logistics Outsourcing
- Logistics Outsourcing Secrets: A Serial Guide to Success with 3PLs
Editor’s Note: The content of this post was originally published on Logistics Bureau’s website dated April 26, 2023, under the title “Logistics Outsourcing is Like Dating“.
