What to Look For in a 3PL
When it comes to shipping freight, shippers value quality service just as much as price, which begs the question: what should I look for in a 3PL?
A 3PL is a third-party logistics (3PL) company that provides services to those looking to ship freight near and far. By streamlining the process, 3PLs offer the complete shipping experience for supply chains and small businesses everywhere. But how do you know you’re choosing the right 3PL for your shipping needs? Learn what to look for when selecting your supply chain partner.
What To Look for in a 3PL Relationship?
A freight broker should operate like an additional arm that helps your company achieve its goals. For larger companies, consider it the tag-team partner for your shipping department. If you’re a small to midsize company, a good 3PL will be your shipping department, saving you time and money so you can focus on growing your business. Other benefits of partnering with a 3PL extend beyond just getting discounted, affordable shipping rates.
3PLs have resources most shippers would have trouble finding on their own in a reasonable amount of time. 3PLs have access to a transportation management system (TMS) that serves as a central hub for everything freight, from finding carriers and lanes to managing tracking information and a place for necessary paperwork. Good 3PLs have long-standing relationships with top carriers who pass along discounted rates, making it cheaper to partner with a 3PL.
3PLs also help you choose the best freight insurance options for your shipments, and depending on the carrier, 3PLs can help you manage the claims process (should it arise).
The Human Touch: Personalized Service for Your Shipping Needs
In today’s fast-paced world, where automation and AI are increasingly prevalent, the value of genuine human interaction cannot be overstated. At FreightCenter, we understand nobody wants to battle an automated system, only to speak with a disinterested representative. The shipping process should feel like a collaborative partnership, not a transactional obligation.
A Partnership, Not an Obligation
When you work with FreightCenter, you’re not just another number in the system. We prioritize building meaningful relationships with our clients, ensuring you receive the personalized attention you deserve. We aim to support you every step of the way, making the shipping process as seamless and stress-free as possible.
The Power of a Personal Shipping Agent
Automation can speed up certain aspects of customer service, but it can never match human interaction’s accuracy, convenience, and personal touch. At FreightCenter, we assign you a dedicated shipping agent who will guide you through every stage of the shipping process. Your shipping agent acts as your additional eyes and ears, diligently working to find and manage the best shipping solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Tailored Solutions and Money-Saving Tips
Your dedicated shipping agent doesn’t just handle logistics – they become an integral part of your supply chain strategy. By understanding the specifics of your business, they can offer tailored solutions that fit your shipping requirements perfectly. Additionally, they provide valuable money-saving tips, helping you optimize your freight shipping budget without sacrificing service quality.
A Personalized Touch at a Reasonable Price
At FreightCenter, exceptional service shouldn’t come with an exorbitant price tag. We strive to offer the personalized touch your business deserves while maintaining competitive pricing. Our commitment to personalized service ensures that you always have a knowledgeable and friendly professional to turn to, making your shipping experience smoother and more efficient.
Awards and Endorsements
- 2021, 2017 & 2016 Food Logistics’ Top Green Providers
- 2021 & 2018 Supply & Demand Chain Executives’ Pros to Know: Matthew Brosious
- 2020 & 2019 Top Food Logistics’ 3PL & Cold Storage Provider Award
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2019 Business Observer’s Top 500 Companies on the Gulf Coast
- 2020 & 2017 Food Logistics’ Champions: Rock Stars of the Supply Chain
- 2020 Best of Palm Harbor Awards for Local Businesses
- 2017 Green Supply Chain Award from Supply & Demand Chain Executive
- 2017 Tampa Bay Business Journal Heroes at Work
- 2016, 2015, & 2012 Food Logistics Top 100 Software and Technology Providers
- 2013 Tampa Bay Business 100 by Tampa Bay Business Journal
- 2013 Top 100 Great Supply Chain Partners by SupplyChainBrain
- 2012 TIA Samaritan Award Honorable Mention
- 2012, 2011 & 2010 TBBJ Fast 50 Recipient
To create value for our customers by delivering customized shipping solutions that meet their unique needs and to fulfill shipping demands from simple to complex with expertise, guidance and ingenuity.
Rail shipping is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation method that utilizes trains to move goods over long distances. It's known for its efficiency in handling large volumes of cargo, making it a sustainable and economical choice for businesses seeking reliable freight transport options.
Expedited shipping is a premium service designed to meet urgent delivery needs. It prioritizes speed and quick turnaround, ensuring that packages or goods reach their destination faster than standard shipping options. Expedited shipping is the go-to choice when time-sensitive deliveries are essential, providing businesses and individuals with reliable and prompt service for critical shipments.
White glove shipping is a premium service that goes beyond standard delivery, offering meticulous handling, specialized packaging, and in-home setup or installation for valuable or delicate items, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for customers.
Less than truckload (LTL) shipping is a smart logistics solution for businesses with smaller shipments. It combines multiple smaller shipments into a single truckload, optimizing space and reducing costs. LTL shipping offers affordability and efficiency while ensuring timely delivery, making it an ideal choice for companies looking to save on transportation expenses without compromising on service quality.
Make FreightCenter Your 3PL Today.
At FreightCenter, we go beyond the basics of logistics to provide a comprehensive and seamless shipping experience. When you partner with us as your third-party logistics provider (3PL), you’re not just getting a service – you’re gaining a dedicated ally in your supply chain management.
Expert Freight Agents at Your Service
One of the standout features of working with FreightCenter is the personalized attention you receive from our experienced and knowledgeable freight agents. From the moment you start planning your shipment to its final delivery, your assigned freight agent will be with you every step of the way. They will handle all the complexities of the shipping process, ensuring that you can focus on what you do best – running your business.
Seamless Coordination with Carriers
We pride ourselves on being the best intermediary between your freight and our extensive network of carriers. Our agents will find the most suitable carrier for your specific needs, whether it’s based on speed, cost, or special handling requirements. We negotiate the best rates on your behalf, leveraging our strong relationships with carriers to secure competitive pricing without compromising quality.
Comprehensive Tracking and Support
Once your shipment is on its way, our job doesn’t end. FreightCenter provides robust tracking tools that allow you to monitor your freight in real-time. Our agents remain accessible, offering updates and answering any questions that may arise during transit. This commitment to transparency and communication ensures that you always know your shipment’s status and can promptly address any issues.
Global Reach with Local Expertise
FreightCenter can handle shipments to virtually any destination, whether you’re shipping domestically from California to Florida or internationally from New York to Italy. Our extensive network and expertise in global logistics make it easy to navigate the complexities of international shipping, including customs regulations and documentation requirements.
Get Started with a Free Quote
Starting with FreightCenter is simple. You can obtain a free online quote quickly and easily through our website. For personalized assistance, our team is also available by phone at 800-716-7608. Whether you have a one-time shipment or are looking for a long-term logistics partner, FreightCenter is here to provide reliable, cost-effective, and efficient shipping solutions tailored to your needs.
Make FreightCenter your 3PL today and experience the difference a dedicated, knowledgeable, and customer-focused logistics partner can make for your business.
We provide competitive freight shipping prices and an all-inclusive, easy-to-use shipping experience for our customers. Exceeding our customers’ expectations results in thousands of satisfied customer reviews and repeat business. We believe in the power of our customer relationships. Check out FreightCenter reviews from real customers, and learn what they have to say about their freight shipping experience!