Global Third Party Logistics (3PL) Market Overview, 2023-28

The term "third-party logistics" (3PL) describes the practice of contracting out supply chain management and logistical tasks to knowledgeable outside companies. Businesses use third-party logistics (3PL) to handle activities like order fulfilment, inventory management, warehousing, and transportation. Businesses that use 3PL can increase productivity, cut expenses, and improve customer service by concentrating on their core capabilities. With the knowledge, tools, and resources at their disposal, 3PL providers can streamline logistical processes and guarantee perfect communication between suppliers, retailers, and manufacturers. Working with a 3PL partner promotes adaptability, scalability, and flexibility in response to market shifts, all of which support the expansion and success of the business. Utilizing 3PL has become standard procedure across a range of industries, demonstrating its essential significance in contemporary business plans. Businesses that offer international delivery frequently collaborate with two or three dozen delivery partners who have varying specializations in various regions. Huge internal staff at major e-commerce corporations like Amazon handles their third-party logistics. They invest a great deal of money and energy into organizing, regulating, and enhancing their logistics. Additionally, Canary Ventures and other angel investors contributed $2.7 million to Kestraa, a Brazilian logistics firm, to fund the development of logistics software. Kestraa is a cloud-based business-to-business (B2B) solution for managing freight that links ship owners, freight forwarders, cargo agents, government systems, and more. Stakeholders are able to plan ahead, anticipate delays, and maximize delivery time thanks to the software. Additionally, customers can keep an eye on how their things are being delivered. Additionally, there has been a shift in the industry where manufacturers and retailers are concentrating more on their core competencies and outsourcing jobs like logistics where they lack experience. The primary goal here is to encourage specialized production and distribution. Third party logistics companies can optimize transportation resources and realize economies of scale by juggling the demands of several client shippers during the transportation and distribution processes.

According to the research report, “Global Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Market Overview, 2023-28” the market is anticipated to cross USD 1600 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 1150.46 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 6.66% CAGR by 2023-28. Through the use of third-party logistics services, businesses can delegate their distribution and logistics needs to knowledgeable service providers who are actively engaged in and skilled at managing tasks like assembly, warehousing, freight, and forwarding. Because third party logistics lowers overall expenses associated with commodities transportation and warehousing, it offers greater flexibility. Additionally, this is the logistics industry's most popular business model, allowing clients to concentrate on their main operations. Some logistics organizations provide value-added services such door-to-door delivery, cross-docking, product sourcing and production, packaging, and inventory management in response to growing consumer demand. The availability of industry-specific, specialized third-party services from reputable logistics service providers is also a major driver of the global market's expansion. In order to handle obstacles such as supply chain disruption, labour shortages, transportation concerns, inflation, and other issues that have become the "new normal" in today's operating climate, e-commerce shippers are increasingly turning to third-party logistics (3PL) providers. Because of this, 3PLs are now providing shippers with more options for delivery, larger spaces to handle increased inventory volumes, and strategic locations. Due to the rise in returns over the past year, e-commerce shippers are looking to partner with 3PLs who can assist clients with the return process. Industries like e-commerce, healthcare, and groceries are embracing quick commerce. By utilizing current technology breakthroughs, businesses and brands are substituting digital platforms for traditional business models and distribution methods in order to enhance their delivery services. Usually, delivery times of less than 20 minutes set this market apart. Usually tiny in size, value, and weight, the orders are easily transported by small vehicles, drones, or two-wheelers. However, the 3PL has already developed into a significant player in the supply chain network. Reliance on third-party logistics (3PLs) will only expand due to the rising demand for resource-backed fulfillment services, which includes better delivery management software, acute logistics optimization, and a rise in the usage of smaller warehouses in metropolitan areas.

The worldwide market is primarily driven by the expanding trend of globalization. Because of their global reach, businesses must overcome difficult obstacles to effectively manage their supply chain. Concurrently, the swift expansion of electronic commerce has resulted in a change in customer preferences, requiring expedited and more adaptable delivery solutions. In addition, 3PL firms can have economies of scale as a result of managing logistics for numerous clients. This makes it possible for companies to save money on labour, warehousing, and transportation. Businesses can also avoid investing in new technology and infrastructure by outsourcing their logistical operations, which results in more economical operations. As so, it is greatly assisting the market. More flexible and responsive logistics solutions are also required due to the growth of on-demand services, direct-to-consumer channels, and subscription-based business models. Because they provide specialized services to guarantee smooth operations, 3PL suppliers are well-positioned to support these emerging business models. Furthermore, the growing number of SMEs breaking into new markets sometimes lacks the internal resources necessary to handle complicated logistics. With the help of 3PL services, smaller businesses may compete with bigger names in the market without having to make substantial investments in logistical infrastructure.

Based on the regions, South America has experienced economic growth and urbanization in recent years. As more people move to urban areas and the middle class expands, there is a greater demand for goods and services. This increased economic activity has driven the need for efficient logistics and supply chain solutions, creating opportunities for 3PL providers. However, several countries in the Middle East have been actively working on economic diversification away from oil-dependent revenues. This diversification effort includes the development of manufacturing and industrial sectors, creating a need for robust supply chain and logistics services to support these emerging industries. Similar to other regions, South America has seen significant growth in e-commerce. The convenience of online shopping has led to a surge in demand for efficient last-mile delivery and order fulfillment services, which are often outsourced to 3PL providers. Some South American countries have been investing in infrastructure development, including transport and logistics infrastructure. Improved road networks, ports, and distribution centers have contributed to a more efficient supply chain ecosystem and have made it more attractive for 3PL providers to operate in the region. The Middle East serves as a critical geopolitical hub, with some countries strategically located between Europe, Asia, and Africa. This location is advantageous for trade and transit, making it a natural hub for logistics and distribution services. Many global companies are establishing a presence in the region, increasing the demand for 3PL services. E-commerce is also on the rise in the MEA region, driven by a young and tech-savvy population. This trend is creating demand for e-commerce logistics, including warehousing, fulfillment, and last-mile delivery services, which 3PL providers are well-equipped to offer. Several countries in the MEA region are investing in infrastructure development, including modern logistics facilities, transport networks, and ports. This investment is vital for improving the efficiency and competitiveness of supply chains, making the region more attractive to 3PL providers.

Airways are growing in the global Third-Party Logistics (3PL) market as air transportation is one of the fastest and most efficient modes of shipping goods over long distances. When time-sensitive or high-value cargo needs to be transported, air freight is often the preferred choice. In the 3PL market, the ability to provide expedited delivery services is a key factor in meeting the demands of clients who value speed. With the globalization of trade, businesses are increasingly sourcing and selling products across international borders. Air freight plays a vital role in connecting businesses with suppliers and customers worldwide. 3PL providers that offer air logistics solutions facilitate global trade by ensuring the rapid movement of goods across continents. Certain products, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, perishable goods, and time-sensitive items, require special handling and fast transportation. The 3PL market, by offering air freight services, caters to industries where the timely and secure delivery of such goods is paramount. Recent disruptions in global supply chains, including the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted the importance of supply chain resilience. Air freight is a valuable component in building resilient supply chains. 3PL providers are increasingly working with clients to diversify transportation modes and incorporate air transport to mitigate disruptions that may affect other modes of transportation. Air logistics often requires expertise in managing complex customs regulations, cargo security, and intricate global networks of airports, airlines, and partners. 3PL providers specializing in air logistics can offer clients access to their established networks, relationships, and knowledge, streamlining international shipments. Many industries, including manufacturing and retail, operate on just-in-time inventory management principles. Air transport allows for quick replenishment of stock, minimizing the need for excessive inventory, reducing warehousing costs, and enhancing supply chain efficiency. 3PL providers can play a crucial role in managing these just-in-time inventory flows via air. While air transportation is associated with speed, it can also be seen as a more environmentally friendly alternative to some other logistics modes when considering the reduction of inventory holding and related emissions. Some companies are turning to 3PL providers with efficient air freight services to reduce their overall carbon footprint.

The rapid growth of e-commerce has significantly increased the demand for warehousing and distribution services. E-commerce businesses require efficient storage and order fulfillment to meet customer expectations for fast and accurate deliveries. 3PL providers that offer warehousing solutions are well-positioned to support e-commerce companies in managing their inventory and efficiently fulfilling orders, especially during peak seasons. Many businesses are adopting multi-channel retailing strategies, selling products both in physical stores and online. This approach requires complex inventory management and distribution processes, making 3PL providers with expertise in W&D a valuable asset. These providers can help clients synchronize their inventory across multiple sales channels and ensure timely delivery to customers regardless of the channel used for purchase. Companies are expanding their operations across borders to tap into new markets. This necessitates the establishment of regional distribution centers and efficient logistics networks to reach a broader customer base. 3PL providers with a global presence and established warehousing and distribution capabilities can facilitate this expansion by managing inventory and distributing goods strategically. To minimize carrying costs and reduce inventory levels, businesses are increasingly adopting just-in-time inventory management. This approach requires the synchronization of supply chain operations, accurate demand forecasting, and efficient warehousing and distribution. 3PL providers can help clients implement just-in-time strategies by providing the necessary warehousing facilities and order fulfillment expertise. Seasonal demand fluctuations, such as holiday shopping seasons or specific industry peaks, require flexible and scalable warehousing and distribution solutions. 3PL providers can quickly adapt to these fluctuations, offering additional space, labor, and transportation resources as needed, without clients having to invest in permanent infrastructure. For many businesses, outsourcing warehousing and distribution operations to 3PL providers is more cost-effective than maintaining their own facilities and workforce. 3PL providers can leverage economies of scale, advanced technology, and optimized processes to manage inventory and distribute goods efficiently, reducing overall logistics costs for their clients. Companies often prefer to concentrate on their core competencies, such as product development and marketing, while leaving the complexities of warehousing and distribution to experts. 3PL providers allow businesses to outsource non-core functions, reducing operational complexity and allowing them to focus on their strategic objectives.

Based on the end users, manufacturing often involves complex and extensive supply chains with multiple tiers of suppliers, intermediaries, and distributors. Managing these intricate networks efficiently is crucial for manufacturers to ensure a steady flow of raw materials and components and the timely delivery of finished products. 3PL providers excel in optimizing these complex supply chains, reducing costs, and enhancing overall efficiency. Manufacturers frequently operate on a global scale, sourcing materials and components from various countries and selling products in international markets. Globalization increases the complexity of logistics and supply chain management. 3PL providers, with their global networks and expertise, are well-equipped to handle the challenges of cross-border logistics, customs clearance, and international distribution. Manufacturers often prefer to concentrate on their core manufacturing processes and product development. Outsourcing non-core functions, such as logistics and supply chain management, to 3PL providers allows them to allocate more resources and attention to their primary business activities. This specialization in logistics is a core driver of the 3PL market's growth within the manufacturing sector. Efficient inventory management is critical in manufacturing. Manufacturers need to balance the costs of holding inventory with ensuring that sufficient materials and finished products are available to meet demand. 3PL providers offer expertise in inventory management, helping manufacturers optimize stock levels, reduce carrying costs, and ensure timely availability of raw materials and products. Many manufacturers practice lean manufacturing and just-in-time production methods to reduce waste and improve efficiency. These approaches require precise supply chain synchronization and rapid material delivery. 3PL providers can support lean practices by ensuring that materials arrive precisely when they are needed, allowing manufacturers to maintain low inventory levels and efficient production. Manufacturers are increasingly adopting advanced technologies, such as robotics, automation, and data analytics, to streamline their operations. 3PL providers are integrating these technologies into their services, providing manufacturers with access to state-of-the-art systems for order processing, tracking, and demand forecasting. This technology integration enhances efficiency and visibility in the supply chain. Many manufacturers are focusing on sustainability and reducing their environmental impact. 3PL providers are adapting their services to support these initiatives by offering greener transportation options, eco-friendly warehousing solutions, and sustainable logistics practices.

Market Drivers:

• Customer Expectations for Speed and Visibility: Customers, both in B2B and B2C contexts, now have higher expectations for the speed and visibility of their deliveries. They want to track their shipments in real-time and receive products faster. This is pushing companies to rely on 3PL providers that can offer advanced tracking systems, faster delivery options, and improved order visibility. 3PLs that can meet these expectations are in high demand.
• Customization and Specialization: As industries become more specialized and diverse, companies require tailored logistics solutions to meet their unique needs. 3PL providers are increasingly offering specialized services and customization to cater to these demands. This trend is driven by the need to provide industry-specific solutions, such as healthcare logistics, cold chain logistics, or high-value cargo handling. The ability to adapt and offer specialized services is becoming a significant driver for 3PLs looking to differentiate themselves in the market.

Market Challenges:

• Labor Shortages and Rising Labor Costs: The logistics industry is facing challenges related to labor shortages and rising labor costs. Recruiting and retaining skilled labor is becoming more difficult, especially in areas like trucking and warehouse operations. This impacts the overall cost structure of 3PL providers and can lead to challenges in meeting client demands, especially during peak seasons.
• Cybersecurity Threats: With the increasing reliance on technology and data-sharing, 3PL providers face a growing challenge in terms of cybersecurity. The industry is becoming a prime target for cyberattacks due to the valuable data and sensitive information it handles. Protecting against data breaches and ensuring the security of digital systems is a pressing challenge that 3PL companies must address to maintain the trust of their clients.

Market Trends:

• Blockchain for Supply Chain Transparency: Blockchain technology is gaining traction as a means to enhance supply chain transparency and traceability. 3PL providers are exploring the use of blockchain to create secure, immutable records of transactions, shipments, and product origins. This technology can help improve trust between supply chain partners and streamline the verification of goods' origins and authenticity.
• Last-Mile Delivery Innovations: The last-mile delivery is a critical and often costly aspect of the supply chain. 3PL providers are increasingly focused on innovations in last-mile delivery solutions. This includes the use of autonomous delivery vehicles, drones, and micro-fulfillment centers in urban areas to reduce delivery times and costs. Last-mile delivery innovations are driven by the need to meet the growing demand for quicker, more convenient and cost-effective deliveries, particularly in densely populated areas.

Covid-19 Impacts

Lockdowns, factory closures, and restrictions on movement caused delays and shortages. 3PL providers faced challenges in adapting to these disruptions, often needing to find alternative suppliers, routes, and transportation methods. This led to a heightened demand for agile and flexible 3PL services to navigate the rapidly changing supply chain landscape. With more people shopping online due to lockdowns and safety concerns, e-commerce experienced a significant surge in demand. This created a corresponding surge in demand for 3PL providers to manage warehousing, order fulfilment, and last-mile delivery services. 3PL companies had to quickly scale up their e-commerce capabilities to meet this increased demand. Companies needed to balance the risk of overstocking with the risk of running out of critical supplies. 3PL providers played a crucial role in helping clients adapt their inventory strategies, offering dynamic solutions for managing and distributing goods to meet fluctuating demand. The pandemic brought heightened focus on safety and health in the workplace. 3PL providers had to implement rigorous safety protocols in their warehouses and transportation operations to protect their employees and ensure business continuity. This often involved additional costs for personal protective equipment, social distancing measures, and sanitization. Some industries, such as healthcare and essential goods, saw an increased need for 3PL services during the pandemic, while others, like travel and hospitality, saw a decreased demand. 3PL providers had to adjust their service offerings and capacities in response to these shifts.

Competitive Landscape

The global 3PL market is highly competitive, with a large number of players operating in the market. The competition in the market is primarily driven by factors such as price, quality of service, innovation, and customer service. Key players in the market are continuously striving to enhance their market position by implementing various strategies, such as expanding their global presence, entering into strategic partnerships, and investing in research and development activities. Some of the leading players in the global third-party logistics market include Dalsey, Hillblom and Lynn (DHL), FedEx Corporation, CH Robinson, Nippon Express , kerry logistics network limited, Expeditors International, Maersk Logistics, DB Schenker, UPS Supply Chain Solutions, Kuehne + Nagel, De Sammensluttede Vognmænd (DSV), CMA CGM SA, Sinotrans Logistics company, J.B. Hunt Transport Services, Inc. , The Rhenus Group , Geodis, Gati Express & Supply Chain Private Limited, Echo Global Logistics, Mahindra Logistics and XPO Inc.

Considered in this report:

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:

• Global Third-Party Logistics (3PL) market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise Third-Party Logistics (3PL) market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions covered in the report

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle-East & Africa

By Mode of Transport:

• Roadways
• Railways
• Waterways
• Airways

By Services:

• Domestic Transportation Management (DTM)
• International transportation management (ITM)
• Dedicated contract carriage (DCC)
• Warehousing & Distribution (W&D)
• Value-Added Logistics By Services (VAS)

By End User:

• Manufacturing
• Healthcare
• Retailing
• Food & Groceries
• Automotive
• E-commerce
• Technological
• Others

Intended audience:

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Third-Party Logistics (3PL) industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.