How can manufacturers ensure accurate and timely shipment tracking from 3PL providers?

1 Choose the right 3PL provider

Not all 3PL providers are the same. Some may specialize in certain industries, regions, or modes of transportation, while others may offer more comprehensive and customized services. Before you select a 3PL provider, you should evaluate their capabilities, reputation, and compatibility with your business needs and goals. You should also look for a 3PL provider that has a robust and reliable tracking system that can integrate with your own, or at least provide you with clear and consistent data that you can easily access and verify.

2 Establish clear expectations and agreements

Once you have chosen a 3PL provider, you should communicate your expectations and requirements clearly and explicitly. You should define the scope, terms, and conditions of your partnership, including the delivery schedules, service levels, quality standards, and performance indicators. You should also agree on the format, frequency, and method of shipment tracking data exchange, as well as the procedures for reporting and resolving any issues or discrepancies. You should document these expectations and agreements in a formal contract that both parties can refer to and abide by.

3 Use technology to facilitate tracking

Technology can be a powerful tool to enhance shipment tracking from 3PL providers. You can use various software applications, platforms, and devices to collect, analyze, and share tracking data in real time. For example, you can use barcode scanners, RFID tags, GPS trackers, or IoT sensors to capture and transmit the location, status, and condition of your shipments. You can also use cloud-based systems, APIs, EDI, or blockchain to integrate and exchange tracking data across different platforms and networks. Technology can help you improve the accuracy, visibility, and security of your shipment tracking.

4 Monitor and evaluate performance

Shipment tracking is not only a way to track your products, but also a way to measure the performance of your 3PL provider. You should monitor and evaluate how well they meet your expectations and agreements, and how they handle any challenges or problems that arise. You can use key performance indicators (KPIs), such as on-time delivery, order accuracy, damage rate, or customer satisfaction, to assess the quality and efficiency of their service. You can also use feedback mechanisms, such as surveys, reviews, or ratings, to gather the opinions and experiences of your customers and stakeholders.

5 Communicate and collaborate regularly

Shipment tracking is not a one-way process. You should communicate and collaborate with your 3PL provider regularly and proactively. You should keep them updated on your orders, inventory, demand, and any changes or issues that may affect your shipments. You should also listen to their feedback, suggestions, or concerns, and work together to find solutions or improvements. You should maintain a respectful and trusting relationship with your 3PL provider, and treat them as a strategic partner rather than a mere vendor.

Shipment tracking from 3PL providers can be a complex and dynamic process, but it can also be a valuable and rewarding one. By following these tips, you can ensure accurate and timely shipment tracking from your 3PL partners, and achieve better results for your manufacturing business and your customers.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?