Inbound Logistics | July 2023

ASSET–BASED OR NON–ASSET BASED ABOUT THE 3PL RESPONDENTS

07 23

3PL MARKET RESEARCH REPORT 2023 INBOUND LOGISTICS PERSPECTIVES

10% ASSET

49% BOTH

41% NON¤ASSET

GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE

North America 41 % Global 39 % U.S. only 20 %

BY MERRILL DOUGLAS

MARKETS SERVED

Retail 92 % Transport sector 90 % Manufacturing 86 %

In a tough supply chain environment, companies often swipe right when it comes to outsourcing. And for good reason. Third-party logistics (3PL) providers can save them money, nd them capacity, and help them provide better service to their customers. In 2023, we see a mixed supply chain terrain. Shippers enjoy lower transportation rates than last year, and capacity is easier to nd. But ination and the labor market still impose pressures that 3PLs—with their specialized capabilities, market clout, and economies of scale—can relieve. And, of course, in any economy, 3PLs can help make strong logistics operations even better. Each year, Inbound Logistics’ annual 3PL Perspectives report offers a snapshot of the current state of 3PL partnerships. For this, our 18th annual report, we analyzed data provided by 3PLs and shippers to reveal what shippers want from 3PLs these days, what service partners can provide, and how both sides deal with the challenges they face. After you’ve absorbed this information, check out the 2023 Top 100 3PLs (page 80) to learn more about the service partners that help keep shippers’ goods owing in any economic environment. What’s trending in logistics partnerships in 2023? Our 18th annual 3PL market research report asked both providers and shippers.

Wholesale 83 % Ecommerce 74 % Services 54 %

2022 REVENUE

Participants in this survey report more than $173 billion in gross sales in 2022. (Several did not report revenue so the amount is likely higher.)

70 Inbound Logistics • July 2023

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