A 3PL company does more than store and ship your products. It becomes an extension of your brand. A reliable partner helps you deliver faster, reduce costs, and protect your profit margins.
According to Shopify, fulfillment now accounts for 15 to 20 percent of total ecommerce revenue. If your logistics partner is inefficient, that number rises quickly and directly impacts profits.
If your ecommerce brand serves U.S. or international customers, the right third-party logistics provider helps you simplify operations and scale effectively.
1. Proven Track Record and Industry Expertise
Experience is the first sign of reliability. A strong 3PL should understand ecommerce, product handling, and seasonal fluctuations.
Look for:
- References or case studies from established brands
- Experience in your product category such as cosmetics, electronics, or fashion
- Consistent accuracy and on-time delivery rates
Experienced 3PL companies prevent problems before they happen.
2. Strategic Warehouse Locations
Speed and cost depend heavily on geography. The best 3PL companies operate multiple U.S. fulfillment centers to reduce shipping times and costs.
A two-warehouse setup on opposite coasts allows 2 to 4 day delivery to most U.S. customers and lowers last-mile courier fees. This setup also increases conversion rates since faster delivery often drives purchase decisions.
Lansil Global follows this model with two U.S. warehouses located in Nevada and Pennsylvania. This structure allows coast-to-coast coverage while keeping inventory close to major U.S. markets. When comparing providers, ask about their warehouse locations and typical delivery times for your key customer regions.
3. Technology Integration and Real-Time Visibility
Modern fulfillment depends on connected systems. A 3PL should integrate directly with your ecommerce platform for instant order syncing and tracking.
Look for:
- Compatibility with Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, or other platforms
- Real-time dashboards for order and inventory tracking
- Automated shipping labels and tracking updates
- Data reports on cost and delivery speed
A connected 3PL provides full visibility from factory to customer, helping brands avoid stockouts, delays, and unnecessary costs.
4. Transparent Pricing Structure
Hidden fees can quickly destroy margins. A trustworthy 3PL provides clear pricing for all services.
Before signing, request a detailed quote that includes:
- Storage fees per SKU or pallet
- Pick and pack fees per order
- Packaging or kitting costs
- Return handling and extra service fees
Transparency builds confidence and allows for more accurate cost forecasting.
5. Scalability and Seasonal Flexibility
A good 3PL should grow with your business. Whether it is holiday season, product launches, or flash sales, your fulfillment partner must be able to adjust capacity fast.
Ask about:
- Peak-season capabilities
- Volume discounts for high order months
- Available space for expansion
Scalability ensures you can grow without worrying about warehouse limitations.
6. Strong Quality Control and Return Management
Returns are part of ecommerce, but poor management can increase costs and damage customer satisfaction.
The right 3PL should provide:
- In-house product inspection before shipping
- Quick and trackable return processing
- Reports on common issues for product improvement
Reliable return management keeps customers happy and reduces financial losses.
7. Clear Communication and Account Support
Communication shows how reliable a 3PL truly is. Fast, proactive communication helps prevent small issues from turning into big problems.
Before committing, test their responsiveness during the sales process. The best 3PL companies assign a dedicated account manager who provides consistent updates and ensures smooth daily operations.
8. Customization and Value-Added Services
Ecommerce brands often have unique packaging and handling needs. The best 3PLs allow customization that aligns with your brand identity.
Look for:
- Custom packaging and inserts that match your branding
- Flexible pick and pack rules for different SKUs or promotions
- Kitting and assembly for bundled items or limited edition sets
- Special handling for fragile or premium products
Customization enhances the customer experience and strengthens your brand presence.
9. Cross-Border Coordination and Tariff Planning
For brands that manufacture overseas, customs and import taxes can quietly eat into profit. A connected 3PL helps reduce those costs through efficient shipment planning.
The most effective setups link a China-based 3PL hub with U.S. fulfillment centers. Bulk shipments can move from the production site to U.S. warehouses in one process, lowering tariffs and improving delivery times.
This global coordination ensures faster transit, reduced duty costs, and smoother communication across all regions.
10. Reputation and Long-Term Fit
The best 3PL is one that feels like a partner, not just a service provider. Check client reviews, industry references, and their transparency during initial discussions.
A reliable company is open about performance metrics and treats your business as a shared success. That kind of partnership leads to smoother logistics and long-term growth.
Quick Checklist: What to Look for in a 3PL Company
| Category | What to Check |
|---|---|
| Experience | Proven background in ecommerce and your category |
| Location | Multiple U.S. warehouses for 2 to 4 day nationwide delivery |
| Technology | Real-time integration with your ecommerce store |
| Pricing | Transparent cost breakdown with no hidden fees |
| Scalability | Ability to handle seasonal or promotional surges |
| Quality Control | In-house inspection and fast return processing |
| Communication | Dedicated account manager and consistent updates |
| Customization | Options for packaging, kitting, and brand-specific handling |
| Cross-Border Coordination | China and U.S. 3PL network for global coverage |
| Reputation/b> | Positive reviews, responsive team, and strong reliability< |
A 3PL company is more than a warehouse. It is a logistics partner that impacts your brand reputation, customer experience, and profitability.
For growing ecommerce brands, working with a provider that offers both China and U.S. 3PL services is the most efficient approach. This setup connects manufacturing, inspection, and international shipping with fast domestic delivery in the U.S.
A connected global 3PL system allows you to manage production, control quality, and fulfill orders worldwide with fewer delays and lower costs. If you are ready to scale your brand globally, choose a 3PL that can support both sides of your supply chain, from factory to customer.
Talk to our fulfillment experts to find the best global 3PL setup for your business
