Logistics, Technology & Services

Finding the right 3PL is not easy

While the benefits of outsourcing logistics are clear, selecting the right third-party logistics provider (3PL) is a high-stakes decision. Partnering with the wrong provider can lead to higher costs, inefficiencies, and customer churn—negatively impacting finances, operations, and reputation.

A structured, data-driven approach is essential to evaluating potential 3PL partners. This begins with establishing both the current baseline and the desired future state. A well-structured bidding process ensures the right providers are attracted and properly assessed. The

Request for Proposal (RFP) should clearly define expectations, service levels, and operational complexities, supported by a comprehensive data package and analytics to enable precise, engineered responses.

 

However, logistics data is often fragmented and difficult to consolidate—especially during transformations or post-M&A. Even with a structured RFP, comparing 3PL proposals can be challenging. Providers have varying pricing formats and terms, making it difficult to assess their impact against baseline costs and future scenarios.
 

BRinging in fix logistix

 

Finding the right logistics partner is a big and complex task that most management teams rarely undertake and must balance alongside their daily responsibilities. Fix Logistix simplifies this process by providing direction, doing a lot of the legwork and managing the entire selection journey.

 

We bring a structured RFP management process backed by proven tools and a strong reputation with a network of prequalified logistics providers. Our cost vs. function matrix approach ensures informed, fact-based decision-making at every stage. If needed, we also provide transition support, from contract negotiation to implementation—and in most cases, we stay on to help ensure a smooth launch.

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Beyond fulfillment: the true cost of 3PL decisions

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Many experts choose 3PLs based on fulfillment capabilities, interfaces, SLAs, storage fees, etcetera.  

 

While important, the real differentiator today is a 3PL’s ability to minimize total logistics costs. The best 3PL for you does not just excel in fulfillment but also helps in optimizing and reducing the cost of transportation. The right fulfillment locations, strategically placed, combined with the order management and rate shopping capabilities, drive efficiency and cost savings. 

 

Budgets and scenarios

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Selecting a 3PL partner, be it for warehouse, inbound transport or outbound transport, should never be done in isolation without considering the impact on the total logistics costs. Looking at a total cost of ownership. 

 

Our analysis always includes center of gravity and similar network analyses. Our deliverables present budget level analysis for different current and future scenarios  breaking out the difference logistics functions for both the functions procured and the functions impacted. 

 

A special relationship with 3PLs

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The Fix Logistix team comes from a 3PL background and understands firsthand that developing a strong solution and crafting a compelling RFP response requires significant effort. As a result, 3PLs must be selective in the opportunities they pursue.

 

We ensure that the projects we manage remain attractive to 3PLs by helping our clients present a well-prepared, complete bid package—enabling providers to quickly assess fit and submit high-quality proposals. Additionally, we prioritize transparency and provide meaningful feedback during and after the bid process. Since such insights are rare, we find that 3PLs are especially eager to engage in the bids we manage.