July 19, 2025
Why Are Large Companies Increasing Their 3PL Partnerships?
Logistics is more than just moving goods from point A to point B. It is a strategic function that directly influences production rates, profit margins, and customer satisfaction. For many large logistics companies, the real challenge lies not in moving items, but in managing the complexity that comes with scale.
And that is precisely where non-asset-based 3PL companies step in.
Logistics Beyond Transportation
At its core, logistics includes the coordination of physical goods, but the coverage goes much deeper. Today, logistics operations management includes revenue flow, performance analytics, and cross-functional collaboration across both inter-company and intra-company lines. When executed well, logistics becomes a key business advantage.
For manufacturers, retailers, and even enterprise-level e-commerce players, logistics is often not a core strength. While these businesses may have built empires on their products or services, the complexities of last-mile delivery, real-time visibility, and route optimization can quickly become overwhelming.
What Is a Large Company?
There is no single definition, but generally, the U.S. federal government classifies businesses as “large” based on either annual revenue or the number of employees. For example:
- 500 or more employees
- Or yearly revenue of $7 million or more
However, industry-specific exceptions may apply. Many large companies fall within the retail, manufacturing, or industrial sectors, where logistics plays a major operational role.
These companies often operate nationwide, or even globally, and require scalable, flexible logistics solutions to meet fluctuating demand, seasonal spikes, and strict delivery timelines.
Why Large Companies Outsource Logistics
Even with internal logistics teams, large enterprises often reach a point where outsourcing becomes essential. That is especially true for organizations that are:
- Experiencing rapid growth
- Expanding into new markets
- Managing complex multi-modal shipments
- Struggling with high transportation costs or inefficiencies
In these scenarios, turning to non-asset-based 3PL companies allows businesses to focus on what they do best, while using outside expertise to optimize their supply chains.
What Makes Non-Asset-Based 3PLs Different
Unlike asset-based providers that own trucks, warehouses, or distribution centers, a non-asset-based 3PL operates by coordinating a broad network of approved carriers and logistics partners. This model offers several key advantages:
Flexibility – Choose the right mode of transport, carrier, or route for each shipment.
Cost efficiency – Avoid the overhead of maintaining fleets or storage facilities.
Technology-driven insights – Get access to advanced tools for tracking, reporting, and route optimization.
Scalability – Easily adapt to volume changes, whether seasonal or sudden.
By working with vetted carriers and using smart logistics operations management, a non-asset 3PL offers a dynamic approach to handling transportation challenges.
At Last Mile Logistics, for example, we tailor every solution to the client’s specific needs, matching them with the best possible carriers, monitoring KPIs in real-time, and ensuring that freight reaches its destination reliably and efficiently.
The Role of Logistics in Business Success
Logistics is no longer just a support function but a business driver. From production to final-mile delivery, every link in the supply chain contributes to customer satisfaction and profit margins.
For this reason, large companies often employ at least one logistics manager, or even an entire department, dedicated to supply chain oversight. However, even the most experienced internal teams benefit from partnerships with external logistics experts, especially when navigating areas such as:
- Freight consolidation
- Customs brokerage
- Reverse logistics
- Expedited or white-glove delivery
These specialized services are precisely what experienced non-asset-based 3PLs are built to provide.
Why Best Practices in Logistics Matter
As competition intensifies, best practices in logistics have become crucial for maintaining service levels and profitability. These practices include:
- KPI-driven performance management
- Proactive communication across supply chain stakeholders
- End-to-end shipment visibility
- Use of data analytics for decision-making
By implementing these standards, logistics professionals can reduce delays, prevent damage, and improve cost-per-shipment metrics.
This is especially crucial in last-mile delivery, where customer expectations are higher than ever. Last-mile delivery best practices include:
- Using GPS tracking for real-time ETA updates
- Offering flexible delivery windows
- Providing delivery notifications via SMS or email
- Implementing route optimization tools to reduce travel time
How Large Companies Benefit from Non-Asset-Based 3PL Partnerships
Here is how large companies gain a strategic edge by working with non-asset-based 3PL companies:
Access to a Broader Carrier Network
Non-asset 3PLs do not rely on a fixed fleet of vehicles. Instead, they establish relationships with a range of approved carriers, enabling clients to benefit from faster deliveries, competitive pricing, and specialized transportation solutions.
Scalability Without Capital Investment
Rather than buying more trucks or expanding warehouse space, large companies can scale logistics operations up or down without major investments. This agility is critical during seasonal surges, product launches, or geographic expansion.
Dedicated Support Without Ownership Risk
Partnering with a non-asset-based 3PL means gaining access to logistics experts, without the liability or maintenance that comes with owning physical assets.
Different Types of Logistics Management That 3PLs Can Handle
Many people think of logistics only in terms of transportation, but there are actually different types of logistics management that large companies must oversee. These include:
Inbound logistics – Managing materials and supplies from vendors to your facility
Outbound logistics – Coordinating delivery of finished products to customers
Reverse logistics – Handling returns, recalls, or recycling processes
Distribution logistics – Managing inventory and stock transfers between locations
Non asset-based 3PL companies often specialize in integrating all of these elements into a seamless operation, which is especially important for businesses that serve B2B markets.
The Future of Logistics Is Flexible and Data-Driven
As supply chains grow in complexity, so does the need for flexible, technology-enabled logistics partners. Large companies that adopt non-asset-based 3PLs are not only reducing costs—they are also future-proofing their operations.
By outsourcing to experienced providers who prioritize last-mile delivery best practices, logistics analytics, and network scalability, these businesses can improve reliability, reduce waste, and enhance their customer experience.
Let Us Handle the Complexity
At Last Mile Logistics, we help large businesses transform their supply chains without the burden of physical assets. Whether you need help with expedited shipping, reverse logistics, white-glove service, or complex distribution, our team is ready to support your goals.
Let us help you simplify your logistics and elevate your operations.
Do you have an RFP or are you looking to explore a new logistics strategy? Reach out to our team today. We are ready to deliver solutions built around your specific needs and your customers’ expectations.
