第三方物流服务：全球复苏中的重要合作伙伴（英文版）_37页_5mb

3PL Services Summary

Core Content

This document provides an overview of the current state of third-party logistics (3PL) services in a volatile and rapidly changing market. It highlights the challenges faced by logistics professionals and the evolving strategies of 3PL providers to adapt and thrive amidst global disruptions such as trade tensions, the pandemic, and e-commerce growth. The focus is on how 3PLs are becoming more strategic partners, leveraging technology, digital transformation, and multimodal solutions to enhance service delivery and profitability.

Main Viewpoints

• Challenges in the Market:

  • Logistics professionals are dealing with a range of challenges including pandemic-related disruptions, rising freight rates, shrinking capacity, and regulatory hurdles.
  • The logistics environment is described as "not for the faint of heart," emphasizing the need for rapid, effective responses to maintain business sustainability.

• Strategic Shift in 3PL Operations:

  • There is a shift from traditional sales strategies to more strategic approaches, with 3PLs now focusing on both large and small accounts to build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships.
  • The report "Increasingly Strategic: Trends in 3PL/Customer Relationships" outlines that 3PLs are increasingly focusing on strategic value rather than just transactional services.

• Digital Transformation:

  • The future of 3PL services is centered on digital experiences, workflow automation, and optimizing service performance for both customers and carriers.
  • Technology plays a key role in enabling better visibility, cost control, and operational efficiency.

• Impact of the Pandemic:

  • The pandemic has significantly affected 3PL operations, with a notable drop in domestic transportation management (DTM) in the second quarter of 2020.
  • Demand for goods is primarily driven by larger shippers, while smaller businesses struggle to recover.
  • There is an increased reliance on air freight due to the surge in B2C and healthcare-related spending, even though air cargo costs have risen.

• Modal Changes:

  • Some 3PLs are shifting to more cost-effective modal solutions, such as rail and ocean freight, due to capacity and cost constraints.
  • Air cargo is being used more for perishable goods, which has led to increased demand and a potential shift in freight volume from electronics to fresh produce and pharmaceuticals.

• E-Commerce Growth:

  • E-commerce has driven a significant increase in order volumes, especially for essential goods and nutraceuticals.
  • 3PL Central reported an 81% increase in order volume from e-commerce shippers since the lockdown, indicating a major shift in logistics demand.

• Case Study: LANXESS:

  • LANXESS, a global chemical producer, has outsourced its logistics and transportation operations to a reliable third party due to the complexity and safety requirements of chemical shipping.
  • They chose Odyssey Logistics & Technology for its expertise in chemical logistics, including specialized equipment, hazmat certifications, and a robust transportation management system (TMS).
  • The transition allowed LANXESS to gain end-to-end supply chain visibility and reduce the burden of managing non-core logistics functions.

Key Information

Top 50 U.S. 3PLs (2019)

Top 50 Global 3PLs (2019)

Conclusion

The 3PL industry is evolving rapidly, driven by digital transformation, modal shifts, and the need for strategic partnerships. Companies like LANXESS are leveraging 3PL services to enhance efficiency and safety in their supply chains, while analysts like Evan Armstrong and Cathy Morrow Roberson emphasize the importance of adapting to new market realities and focusing on long-term growth and resilience.