Global business models are rapidly changing. Shorter life cycles of products and new business need exert pressure on Supply Chain managers to keep pace with the new scenarios. They are often faced with the target to reduce logistical costs and establish new supply networks.
It has now become a common practice to outsource all logistical activities to third party vendors both in procurement side of logistics as well as finished goods, spare parts and reverse logistics areas too.
Today the 3PL service providers market is filled with players of all sizes and competencies, from single owner driven local service provider to multi national companies. Most of the companies have traditionally been transporters or freight forwarders and over the years have acquired warehousing and contract management capabilities keeping in line with the growing needs.