Keys to Working with a Third-Party Logistics Solutions Provider

If you need help managing your company's logistics, then you might consider working with a third-party logistics provider because they could save you a lot of money and time. This relationship can work out in your company's favor too if you remember the following tips.

1. State Needs in the Beginning

Before you sign an agreement to work with a third-party logistics provider, it's important to state your needs from the very beginning. You need to outline what expectations you have as far as how your goods are handled and shipped to different clients. Setting these clear expectations lets the third-party logistics provider cater their storage and material handling operations to your company's exact needs. You then won't have to worry about running into a bunch of issues and then losing a lot of money over the years. You'll also have an easier time working with this third party on a long-term basis.

2. Limit Points of Contact

In order to effectively communicate with a third-party logistics provider over the years, you need to keep your points of contact to a minimum. If you didn't and there were actually a lot of parties involved in managing these logistics solutions, then a lot of miscommunication can result.

The best thing you can do is appoint one person you trust to deal with the third-party logistics provider. They'll probably end up doing the same. This one-on-one point of contact will be efficient and there won't be any confusion involved—helping your company avoid costly mistakes. 

3. Schedule Visits Consistently

Even if you believe the third-party logistics provider you're working with is experienced and trustworthy, it's still a good idea to schedule visits to their shipping operations consistently. There's something extremely helpful about seeing the way your goods are handled in person.

You can see exactly what capabilities the third-party logistics provider has and make sure everything is running smoothly. If you notice issues during these inspections, you can let the provider know and they'll make adjustments as you see fit before it's too late and you're out a bunch of money. 

Owning a company that sells a lot of products often warrants getting help from a third-party logistics service. They can manage the shipping and storage operations in an effective manner, especially if you take time to understand what's required on your part in this important business relationship that may last for years.