For many business owners, moving goods from point A to point B becomes a core part of their daily routine. It sounds easy until you realize all the components that need to be in place for that to happen seamlessly and efficiently. Aspects like regulations, licenses, truckers, taxes, and of course the cost need to be looked after as well as warehousing, transportation, and distribution. Most businesses choose to outsource this to a third-party logistics provider (3PL) so that they can handle the other important matters in managing their business.

However, a business’s reputation and customer satisfaction rely heavily on the way the 3PL handles the logistics and it’s not something you can simply hand over to anyone. A 3PL company has to be reliable because your brand’s reputation depends on it. When choosing a logistics partner, it has to be a company that can deliver your goods on time and in good condition—and to uphold the standards of your own company. There are a lot of options out there, so here are the factors you need to consider when choosing your next logistics partner.

Freight Management

Choose a logistics company with great freight management. Which means that they can quickly react to your evolving needs. When you require an expedited delivery or have an oversized shipment, you must make sure that the 3PL can handle it promptly and without it taking too much time out of your day to get it done.

Technology

Find a logistics company that utilizes the latest and most innovative technology to help take services to the next level. You want a company that can offer you customized and groundbreaking solutions.

Scalability

The right logistics partner is one that has the ability to scale with your business. You want to choose a 3PL that can partner with you for the long run so that as your businesses grows it can offer services and solutions to handle a larger load in a timely manner.

Price

The cost of outsourcing your logistics needs should not be the main factor of choosing your partner. Although you want the best price, you also want your products to arrive on time and safely so that you can ensure customer satisfaction. Those three things are worth the price you are paying for them.

Customer Service

Having effective communication when you need it is crucial when dealing with a logistics company. If they don’t respond in a timely manner to your phone calls, or emails, and they have a hard time offering solutions and services according to your needs, you most likely will need to find another logistics company.

Every part of your business has to be running smoothly in order for you to succeed. Logistics is one of the main component that can make or break it. It is best to choose a company that shares your values and works with commitment to great services. Do your due diligence and find out how the company you chose has treated their suppliers and employees and what type of reviews they have online. Once you have done your homework, you can confidently choose a logistics provider that will help you improve your services and not hold you back.