In today’s fast-paced business world, gaining a competitive edge often hinges on streamlining operations and broadening market access. Outsourcing logistics presents a strategic opportunity for businesses to achieve these goals. It allows companies to focus on what they do best by handing over complex logistics functions to the experts. Explore the advantages of outsourcing your logistics and discover how it can turn your challenges into key strengths.

What is Logistics Outsourcing?

Logistics outsourcing is when a business hires a Third-Party Logistics (3PL) provider to handle its logistics operations. This includes the management of transportation and shipping services across different modes and geographies. Companies typically outsource logistics to receive customized services that improve efficiency, reduce costs and focus on their core competencies. 

Reasons to Outsource Logistics Operations

1. Cost Savings

Outsourcing logistics to a 3PL can yield substantial cost savings, thanks to their expertise and economies of scale. By aggregating demand from various customers, 3PLs can negotiate better deals with carriers and suppliers and optimize transportation routes, resulting in reduced transportation and inventory costs for their clients.  

Furthermore, their access to advanced logistics software and tools enables more efficient operations. This includes optimized routing, better inventory management and real-time tracking, all of which contribute to minimizing waste and cutting down on superfluous expenses.

2. Risk Management

Effectively managing an entire supply chain is no small task. 3PLs are adept at handling supply chain disruptions, thanks to their expertise, resources and contingency plans, which are crucial in navigating today’s complex global market. By leveraging their knowledge in areas like route optimization, warehousing inventory management, demand forecasting and staying current with regulatory changes, they can reduce operational risks and legal penalties.

3. Dedicated Logistics Support

Many 3PLs have expert account managers available 24/7 that oversee shipments from start to finish. They ensure optimal routing and quickly resolve any issues during transit. Their role extends to maintaining open, transparent communication and handling any logistics challenges that arise. By managing these complex operations, businesses can focus on their core activities that enhance operational efficiency and improve customer satisfaction.

4. Innovative Technology

In today’s fast-paced logistics environment, the ability to track shipments in real-time is not just an advantage; it’s a necessity. Understanding this need, 3PLs have been at the forefront of adopting innovative technology to offer heightened levels of transparency and control over logistics processes.

Ascent’s proprietary PEAK marketplace is a revolutionary platform that connects shippers with a network of over 1,000 premium providers across the globe. This technology is designed to cater to a wide range of shipping needs, including air charter, ground expedite, on-board courier, international airfreight and spot-buy truckload, making it a versatile tool for businesses of all sizes.

5. Global Network

A global network is a pivotal asset for businesses looking to expand their reach or streamline international logistics services. This global presence is particularly beneficial for businesses navigating the complexities of international trade, such as customs regulations, import/export restrictions and cross-border shipping protocols.

6. Reliability through Asset-Backed Companies

For businesses that require consistent and reliable shipping, partnering with an asset-backed 3PL partner offers significant advantages. Asset-backed logistics companies own a substantial part of their transportation infrastructure, including their own fleet of trucks and aircraft.

At Ascent, we’re backed with our own fleet of aircraft and ground transportation, guaranteeing capacity for our customers and the flexibility to provide the most optimal solution for their shipments. This benefit is particularly important for businesses with time-sensitive or high-value goods, as it reduces the likelihood of delays and disruptions, which is crucial for maintaining supply chain continuity and meeting customer expectations.

Outsourcing logistics to a 3PL presents a strategic advantage for businesses aiming to streamline their supply chain operations. By embracing this approach, companies can enjoy the benefits of simplification, logistics cost savings, risk management and a global network. This not only helps reduce the operational load on businesses but also empowers them to focus on their core competencies, expand into new markets and enhance customer satisfaction. 

Outsource Your Logistics with Ascent

As an asset-backed 3PL provider, we bring all the key benefits of logistics outsourcing under one roof. Our expertise in solving complex supply chains, coupled with 24/7 support and a strong global network, positions us to handle complex logistics challenges, especially for urgent and high-value shipments. Partnering with Ascent means accessing a blend of speed, precision and reliability, enabling your business to thrive with confidence in its logistics operations. Get started by exploring our On-Demand, Forwarding and Brokerage solutions today.