Korn Ferry International

The 2019 23rd Annual Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Study examines the global outsourced marketplace and leading trends for shippers and 3PLs in the logistics industry.

The 2016 20th Annual Third Party Logistics Study shows continued collaborative and positive relationships between shippers and third-party logistics providers, which have been developing since the study began 20 years ago.

The study identifies trends and explores how both 3PLs and shippers are using these relationships to improve and enhance their businesses and supply chains, was influenced by industry executives and experts from around the world.

Nearly one-third of the respondents participating in the study said they are not prepared to handle omni-channel retailing and only 2% of respondents rated themselves as high performing in the omni-channel space.

For 18 years this study has documented the significant transformation of the 3PL industry. In that time 3PLs have evolved from tactical service providers to become, in the most evolved relationships, collaborative partners delivering in many instances a comprehensive suite of integrated logistics services.

Evolving economic conditions, rapidly changing global and industry dynamics and the maturing of the industry suggest the capabilities and uses of 3PLs have evolved considerably over the sixteen years of this study. To assess these changes, the study team uses four complementary channels of research.