How Do I Find a Trusted International Logistics Solution Provider?

 Are you entering the international market? If yes, then you need to ramp up your logistics and shipping capabilities and get ready to fulfill the needs of your new international customers. To meet this requirement, you will need a reputable international logistics solution provider, commonly known as a global third-party logistics provider (3PL).

Now, the question arises - how do I find a trusted international logistics provider? Here is the step-by-step process of finding a reliable international 3PL for your business.

1.     Determine the Type of International 3PL You Need

When you go online, you will find an umpteen number of 3PLs that serve manufacturers and retails across the globe. While some providers provide only specific services such as warehousing and distribution, others provide a turnkey solution for your logistics and shipping needs. On the other end, some are even platform-dedicated 3PL companies that offer their services for only a specific platform, for instance, FBA cargo logistics solution providers that offer their services mainly for Amazon sellers and retailers. 

FBA cargo logistics solution providers can offer:

·        Air Freight and Express

·        Sea FCL and LCL Services

·        FBA Cargo Insurance Services

·        Customs Clearance Services

·        Inspection Services

·        Labeling, Packaging, and Re-branding Services

·        Account Services

·        Freight Forwarding or Selling on Amazon

So, first, figure out what kind of services you need. Do you need only freight forwarding services, or are you looking for a warehouse and distribution center in a specific country? How much budget can you assign to shipping and logistics need? Once you have your answer, go online and narrow down companies that offer the services you need and contact them directly to learn more about them.

 

2.     Find out the Market Accessibility

Are you shipping your products worldwide or to only specific countries? Knowing which countries you want to deliver your products will narrow down your list of global 3PL companies. You can either check their websites or send them an email to provide the updated list of countries they operate in.

 

3.     Evaluate their Scalability

Since you are planning to enter the international market, it is important to factor in the scalability of your global 3PL. After building a good relationship with one company, you don’t want to switch 3PLs midstream. 

So, right from the beginning, make sure that the global 3PL can accommodate your demands as your business logistics’ needs grow. For that, you can ask a few questions, such as:

·        Do they have any cap on the amount and extent of services they offer?

·        What is their maximum capacity of handling shipments to your international market?

·        Have they scaled their service offerings for other clients in the past?

·        Do they operate in other international markets where you don’t currently have a reach but want to enter in the future?

4.     Assess Their Technological Capability

Reputable international logistics solution providers use technology platforms that allow them to operate their business efficiently and deliver on time. So, enquire about what technological platform they use, how advanced their platforms are, what makes them different from others, and whether their platform is compatible with yours.

Finally, check out their track record and customer service.

 

If they pass your criteria with flying colors, finalize them and ask them to create a detailed agreement. It must include the services they will offer to you, what steps they will take in case of any failure or damage, how you can make claims, the timeline and complete process of making claims, cost of their services, and everything they agree to do for you verbally. Read the agreement contract carefully before you sign it.