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The success of any business rests in the hands of the customer. If your customers aren’t happy, they won’t purchase your products or recommend your company. This leads to a reduction in sales that can ultimately drive your business into the ground.
There are many factors that come into play when dealing with customer satisfaction, but one of the biggest is the order fulfillment process. The speed and accuracy with which orders are fulfilled is one of the biggest determining factors in customer satisfaction, but it is also one of the most challenging aspects of running a business. To simplify and streamline this process for reduced costs and improved customer satisfaction, many businesses turn to 3PL providers and 4PL providers to improve their logistics strategy and expand their fulfillment capabilities.
In order to truly understand the difference between third and fourth-party logistics, you first need to understand the basics of how outsourced logistics works. Keep reading to find simple definitions of 1PL, 2PL, 3PL, and 4PL, followed by an in-depth look at the difference between third-party and fourth-party logistics.
An online retailer has a wide variety of options when it comes to fulfilling orders. Choosing the right logistics provider is the key to optimizing your supply chain and maximizing both profit and customer satisfaction. If you make the wrong choice, it could end up costing your company thousands, even millions, of dollars, not to mention end up hurting your customer satisfaction rating as well.
Before getting into the specifics of third-party versus fourth-party logistics, here’s a quick review of logistics terminology to put things in context:
In the above overview, the egg and farmer business is a hypothetical example that could be applied to any eCommerce business.
Every business has its own unique needs for supply chain logistics. For medium to large-sized businesses, however, it usually comes down to choosing between third-party and fourth-party logistics providers. Keep reading to learn the basics of both and to receive some tips for making the best choice for your company.
Simply put, a third-party logistics provider is a model that involves three separate parties. The first is the business itself, the second the logistics provider, and the third is the carrier. In this supply chain model, the business turns over logistics operations for inventory storage, packaging, and managing inventory as well as turning it over to the carrier for shipment. Another way to think of it is that a 3PL becomes the middleman between the business and the shipping carrier, taking care of the tedious aspects of shipping.
This supply chain model has been around since the 1970s, and the first 3PL providers were intermodal marketing companies that received packaged loads from shippers and transferred them to railroads. Today, the role of a 3PL provider has expanded to include services such as managing the movement of parts and materials from suppliers to manufacturers. It also includes transferring finished products from the manufacturer to the distributor or retailer.
In most cases, third-party logistics providers offer bundled supply chain services which may include some or all of the following:
These services can be scaled and customized according to the business’s needs. Generally speaking, businesses hire 3PLs when their supply chain becomes too complicated for internal management. For example, if a small business significantly expands their inventory as sales increase or grows through a merger or acquisition by another company.
If you’re still not sure whether a third-party logistics provider is right for your business, here are some examples of industries that can benefit from hiring 3PL providers:
Hiring third-party logistics companies could help you expedite your order fulfillment while also reducing costs and improving customer satisfaction. Before you commit, however, there is another option to consider – fourth-party logistics. Keep reading to learn more.
In a fourth-party logistics partnership, a business is basically outsourcing the entirety of their supply chain management to a logistics service provider. The 4PL oversees all of the different pieces of their client’s supply chain including warehouses, transportation companies, and agents. The goal is for the 4PL to be the single interface for the business between all aspects of the supply chain.
You can think of 4PLs as a supply chain integrator. It’s the most comprehensive supply chain solution available for a business. A 4PL is often a joint venture for enterprises that want business planning and project management to be handled by a separate entity. For example, companies like Deloitte and Accenture offer 4PL services to their clients.
In most cases, the 4PL does not actually own warehouse or transportation assets. Rather, it coordinates these services with vendors – it may also coordinate the activities of 3PL providers that are handling various aspects of the company’s supply chain. The difference is that 3PL providers are focused on day-to-day operations while 4PL providers focus on integration and optimization. A 4PL provider may also be known as a Lead Logistics Provider (LLP).
The primary benefit of hiring a 4PL organization is that the 4PL focuses on simplifying and streamlining logistics for the highest level of services for the best value. The 4PL becomes your single point of contact for the entire supply chain which is ideal for large businesses that have complex order fulfillment operations.
Here is a quick summary of some of the benefits a 4PL provides:
Now that you know a little more about what a 4PL does take a minute to review the potential pros and cons for hiring a 4PL provider.
If you’re still not sure whether a fourth-party logistics provider is right for your business, here are some examples of industries that can benefit from hiring 4PL providers:
In the industry of medical devices, surgeons often make last-minute orders and order multiple sizes of devices since they don’t know exactly what they’ll need. A 4PL provider is better equipped to manage complex chain-of-custody requirements and tight delivery schedules while reducing inventory costs.
Integrative technology enables a 4PL to optimize all aspects of the supply chain including determining the ideal parts, quantities, and locations based on anticipated demand. Field techs no longer have to double as warehouse operators and parts can be delivered in 30 minutes or less, improving efficiency and maximizing customer satisfaction.
By managing the entire supply chain network, 4PLs can allocate inventory to meet customer demand and to reduce missed opportunities. They also enable companies to provide same-day delivery regardless of location as well as same-day replenishment.
Now that you know the basics about third-party and fourth-party logistics, you may already have a sense for which one might be best for your company. Before making your choice, however, you should take a closer look at the unique differences between 3PL vs 4PL providers.
A 3PL is focused on the day-to-day operations of your supply chain logistics – it is more transaction-focused than a 4PL. That being said, a 4PL takes it a step further by optimizing your entire supply chain, including any 3PL providers your business might have hired. They take over the entire operation and become your single point of contact which leaves you free to pursue other things that might help grow and expand your business.
When an organization already has an effective, high-performance supply chain strategy in place, a 3PL provider can provide the extra support needed to execute that strategy efficiently. This type of relationship usually requires a significant degree of internal management to ensure that the 3PL’s performance meets business standards. While the day-to-day functions may be out of your hands, you still need to retain a certain degree of oversight. You should also keep in mind that because 3PLs are asset-based, some companies may be more concerned with utilizing their own assets than with providing competitive rates or more valuable services.
A fourth-party logistics provider is non-asset based which means that their focus is on finding the ideal combination of service and value. These providers utilize integrated technology to ensure a high level of visibility across the entire supply chain for both strategic and tactical analysis. Your business will still need to utilize some internal resources to oversee and manage 4PL performance, but it takes most of the weight off your shoulders when it comes to optimizing services and minimizing costs.
There are a lot of factors to consider when it comes to choosing between a 3PL and a 4PL, so be sure to do your research before you decide. Keep reading to receive some simple tips to employ as you start making your decision.
Know that you understand a little more about third-party and fourth-party logistics and how they differ, which option is best for your company? Unfortunately, there may not be a clear-cut answer. You’ll need to take a deeper look at your business operations to see where you are struggling and whether hiring a 3PL or 4PL provider might help.
Here are some of the signs that your company could benefit from hiring a 3PL provider:
For many businesses, hiring a 3PL provider is the first step as the business grows and expands. Over time, however, it might make more sense to move to a fourth-party logistics model. If your business has outgrown your in-house capacity for managing supply chain services and you want to optimize the entire process for efficiency and controlled costs, you may do best with a combination of 3PL and 4PL providers. The benefit of hiring a 4PL is, of course, that you can also gain the benefit of 3PL services without having to manage them yourself.
Whether you are hiring a 3PL or a 4PL provider, you need to do your research to ensure that you choose the company that is the best fit for your business. Take the time to delve deep into each company’s set of skills as well as their experience and reputation in the industry. You’ll be turning over a significant portion of your business’s essential operations, so you need to choose a provider you can trust 100%.
ShipHero is a leading 3PL service for ecommerce merchants. We handle logistics and fulfillment for over 4,000 online stores.
Due to our partnerships with major carriers, merchants working with ShipHero get reduced shipping costs for each order. Even better, our use of distributed fulfillment centers means you save even more money on transit costs and can get orders delivered faster.
With ShipHero’s distributed fulfillment network, orders can be delivered to most locations with 1 to 2 days. This allows you to offer the same delivery speeds that Amazon does, without having to let Amazon’s FBA fees reduce your profits.
We don’t just handle fulfillment for your Amazon orders. In addition to Amazon, ShipHero handles multi-channel fulfillment for Walmart, eBay, Shopify, BigCommerce, and most other eCommerce sales channels.
Every business is unique in terms of the services it provides, but all businesses have the same basic needs. Optimizing your supply chain process for reduced costs and improved customer satisfaction should always be a priority and hiring a 3PL or 4PL provider could be your next step to doing so.
Need a warehouse management system (WMS) for your 3PL? ShipHero’s 3PL services will help your eCommerce store run at full potential.
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If you're looking for the best 3PL companies in Canada, you've come to the right place. This article will introduce you to some of the top players in the industry and provide valuable insights into the world of third-party logistics in Canada.
Before going into the specifics, it’s important to understand what third-party logistics or 3PL is.
In simple terms, 3PL refers to the outsourcing of supply chain management functions to a specialized company. These companies handle various aspects of logistics like transportation, warehousing, and distribution on behalf of their clients.
By entrusting their logistics operations to a 3PL provider, businesses can focus on their core competencies while benefiting from the expertise and resources of the 3PL company. It's a win-win situation that has gained popularity across industries.
In the transportation arena, 3PL providers play a crucial role ensuring the smooth movement of goods from one location to another. They have extensive networks of carriers and can negotiate favorable rates that save their clients money. Additionally, 3PL companies have the expertise to optimize routes, track shipments in real-time, and handle any unexpected issues that may arise during transit.
Warehousing is another area where 3PL providers excel. Most have strategically located warehouses equipped with state-of-the-art technology and systems to efficiently store and manage inventory. This helps businesses reduce their warehousing costs and benefit from extra scalability and flexibility. With advanced inventory management systems, businesses have real-time visibility into their stock levels, ensuring timely replenishment and minimizing stockouts.
And beyond transportation and warehousing, 3PL provider services can include order fulfillment, packaging, labeling, and even customer support. By leveraging these additional services, businesses can enhance their overall supply chain operations and improve customer satisfaction.
A key advantage of partnering with a 3PL provider is access to their expertise and industry knowledge. 3PL companies are always up to date on the latest trends, regulations, and best practices in logistics. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations to optimize supply chain processes across many industries.
Another benefit of working with a 3PL provider is scalability. With a 3PL partner, businesses can easily scale up or down their logistics operations without significant investments in infrastructure or resources. They can adapt quickly to market demands and seize new opportunities.
In conclusion, third-party logistics, or 3PL is the outsourcing of supply chain management functions to specialized companies. These companies handle transportation, warehousing, and distribution on behalf of their clients, letting businesses focus on their core competencies. 3PL providers offer expertise, cost savings, scalability, and value-added services, making them an attractive option for businesses across industries.
To have a better understanding of how 3PL companies operate and the diversity of services they offer, consider reading our comprehensive overview of 3PL companies, which provides insights into selecting the right partner for your logistics needs.
In Canada, the 3PL market is vibrant and competitive. With its vast geographical area and robust trade relationships, the country presents numerous opportunities for logistics companies.
Canadian 3PL providers offer a wide range of services, catering to industries like retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, and healthcare. From managing inventory and order fulfillment to overseeing transportation networks, these companies play a vital role in the supply chains of businesses across the country.
The 3PL market in Canada is constantly evolving to meet the changing demands of businesses. As companies seek to optimize their supply chains and provide seamless customer experiences, the role of 3PL providers becomes increasingly important.
A Key factor driving this growth is the rapid expansion of e-commerce. As more and more Canadians turn to online shopping, businesses need efficient and reliable logistics solutions to fulfill customer orders quickly and accurately.
Canadian 3PL companies offer a comprehensive range of services to meet the specific needs of their clients. Common services include:
These services can be tailored to suit small startups, large corporations, and everything in between. By leveraging the expertise of 3PL providers, companies can streamline their operations and gain a competitive edge in the market.
To explore the specific services provided by third-party logistics providers and how they can transform your supply chain, explore our detailed discussion on 3PL services, offering a closer look at how these services streamline operations for businesses of all sizes.
Partnering with a 3PL company in Canada offers several benefits for businesses:
Overall, partnering with a 3PL company in Canada is transformative for businesses, offering a pathway to reduce operational costs, enhance efficiency, achieve scalability, maintain a focus on core business areas, and leverage expert insights.
These combined benefits create a formidable foundation for businesses to thrive and expand in the highly competitive Canadian marketplace.
Small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to capitalize on these benefits should explore our detailed guide on 3PL for small businesses. This resource is tailored to help smaller companies understand how to effectively utilize 3PL partnerships to enhance their logistics operations and support growth.
Several 3PL companies in Canada stand out for their industry expertise, reliability, and customer satisfaction::
Each of these 3PL companies in Canada brings its unique strengths to the table, from extensive national networks and fast delivery capabilities to specialized services and global reach. Choosing the right 3PL partner depends on a business’s specific logistics needs, growth goals, and the strategic value the 3PL can provide in facilitating efficient and effective supply chain operations.
If you're considering partnering with a 3PL company in Canada, here are a few steps to get started:
In conclusion, the best 3PL companies in Canada offer a range of services to optimize supply chains and fulfill the unique logistics needs of businesses. By partnering with a reputable 3PL provider, businesses can unlock new efficiencies, lower costs, and gain a competitive advantage in the Canadian market.
The cost of 3PL services in Canada varies based on factors such as the scope of services required, volume of shipments, and industry-specific needs. It's best to request quotes from multiple providers to get an accurate estimate.
Absolutely. 3PL providers offer scalable solutions, making them suitable for businesses of all sizes. Small businesses can leverage the expertise and resources of 3PL companies to optimize their logistics operations and compete more effectively in the market.
Choosing the right 3PL partner requires careful consideration. Look for companies with experience in your industry, a strong track record, and the ability to meet your specific requirements. Conducting thorough evaluations and interviews will help you gauge compatibility and make an informed decision.
Yes, many 3PL providers in Canada can handle international logistics. They can handle customs clearance, freight forwarding, and global transportation, ensuring a smooth flow of goods across borders.
Absolutely. Many 3PL companies in Canada specialize in niche industries, such as healthcare and pharmaceuticals. They have the necessary certifications, infrastructure, and experience to ensure compliance with industry regulations and safely handle critical goods.
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Many businesses turn to third-party logistics (3PL) companies for their shipping, warehousing, and fulfillment needs, but it can be overwhelming to choose the right 3PL provider for your business with so many available options. Any of these five 3PL companies would be a great place to start:
If you know what a 3PL is and why you might need it, then you have five places to start your search. If you don’t know much about 3PLs, keep reading.
Third-party logistics refers to the outsourcing of logistics activities to a specialized company. These companies handle tasks such as transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and order fulfillment on behalf of their clients. By partnering with a 3PL provider, businesses can streamline their supply chain processes and focus on their core competencies.3PL companies offer a wide range of transportation services. They generally have a network of carriers and can negotiate favorable rates for shipping goods. By road, air, rail, or sea, these companies have the expertise to ensure that products reach their destination efficiently and on time. They also handle all the necessary documentation and customs clearance, taking the burden off the businesses.Warehousing is another crucial aspect of logistics that 3PL companies excel in. They have strategically located warehouses equipped with the latest technology and infrastructure to store goods safely and efficiently. These warehouses are often equipped with advanced inventory management systems that allow businesses to track their inventory in real-time. This ensures that businesses always have visibility into their stock levels and can fulfill customer orders promptly.Inventory management is a complex task that requires careful planning and execution. 3PL companies have dedicated teams that specialize in managing inventory. They use sophisticated software systems to track stock levels, monitor expiration dates, and optimize storage space. By outsourcing this function to a 3PL provider, businesses can minimize the risk of stockouts and reduce carrying costs.Order fulfillment is the final step in the logistics process, and 3PL companies play a crucial role in ensuring orders get delivered accurately and on time. 3PL companies often have efficient order processing systems in place to handle everything from picking and packing to labeling and shipping. With their expertise, businesses can provide their customers with a seamless and reliable order fulfillment experience.Overall, partnering with a 3PL provider offers numerous benefits for businesses. It lets the business tap into the expertise and resources of a specialized logistics company, optimize their supply chain, and improve customer satisfaction. By outsourcing logistics activities, businesses can focus on their core competencies and gain a competitive edge in the market.If you're new to the concept of third-party logistics and curious about the breadth of services they offer, our comprehensive overview on 3PL services breaks down everything from warehousing to order fulfillment, equipping you with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
3PL companies come in all shapes and sizes, offering a wide range of services to cater to different business needs. While some 3PL providers specialize in specific industries or regions, others offer comprehensive solutions that can be tailored to any business. The top 5 best 3PL companies on our list have proven track records, extensive networks, and a reputation for delivering exceptional results.
eCommerce businesses, retailers, manufacturers, and distributors are among the industries that commonly use 3PL providers. Startups and small businesses often choose 3PL companies to handle their logistics needs so they themselves can focus on growth and core competencies. Larger corporations also benefit from outsourcing logistics tasks; they can streamline their operations and gain access to specialized expertise. Startups and small businesses often face unique challenges in logistics and supply chain management. Dive deeper into how a 3PL can be a game-changer for small businesses by visiting our detailed guide on 3PL services for small businesses, offering insights to streamline your operations and focus on growth.
The top 5 best 3PL companies mentioned above excel in certain core competencies that set them apart from their competitors. These core competencies include:
When choosing a 3PL provider, it is crucial to consider their fulfillment center locations and warehousing capabilities. The top 5 best 3PLs above have strategically located warehouses across the country, allowing for faster and more cost-effective shipping. These companies have invested in state-of-the-art warehousing facilities that prioritize efficiency, security, and scalability.
eCommerce businesses rely heavily on effective supply chain management to ensure timely order fulfillment. The top 5 best 3PL companies integrate seamlessly with popular eCommerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Amazon. They also support multiple sales channels, including marketplaces like eBay and social media platforms. By leveraging the capabilities of these 3PL providers, eCommerce businesses can enhance their customer experience and boost sales.
When selecting a 3PL provider, consider their track record of customer satisfaction. The top 5 best 3PL companies have a proven history of delivering a high level of service and exceeding customer expectations. They have earned positive reviews and testimonials from their clients, showcasing their commitment to excellence.
If you decide to partner with a 3PL provider, the onboarding process is generally straightforward. It typically involves:
By following these steps, you can start leveraging the benefits of 3PL services and optimizing your supply chain management.
While selecting a 3PL provider, avoid these common mistakes that can lead to poor service or unsatisfactory results:
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can make an informed decision and select a reliable and suitable 3PL provider.
The cost of 3PL services can vary depending on the volume of shipments, storage requirements, and the complexity of logistics operations. 3PL providers typically use a pricing structure that includes fixed costs like warehousing fees, and variable costs based on the services used. Carefully review the pricing details provided by potential 3PL providers so you know it aligns with your budget.
In conclusion, partnering with a reputable 3PL company can significantly optimize your supply chain and enhance your overall business operations. The top 5 best 3PL companies stand out due to their extensive networks, advanced technology, superior customer service, and customizable solutions. When choosing a 3PL provider, consider factors such as industry expertise, technology capabilities, and customer satisfaction. By avoiding common mistakes and understanding the pricing structure, you can make an informed decision and select the right 3PL provider for your business.
3PL stands for Third-Party Logistics. It refers to the outsourcing of logistics and distribution by companies to third-party firms that specialize in warehousing, transportation, and fulfillment services. These third-party providers manage all or a significant portion of a company's logistics functions, allowing businesses to focus on other areas without the need for extensive logistics infrastructure or expertise.
While it is not mandatory, utilizing a 3PL company can provide numerous benefits, particularly for businesses that require efficient supply chain management.
Consider factors such as reputation, industry expertise, technology capabilities, and customer satisfaction when selecting a 3PL provider. Additionally, ensure their services align with your specific business needs.
A 3PL Warehouse Management System (WMS) is a software solution that helps companies manage and optimize their warehouse operations. It provides a centralized platform for handling tasks such as inventory management, order fulfillment, shipping, and receiving.
It’s an essential tool for third-party logistics providers that lets them efficiently manage their clients' warehouse operations.
A key challenge third-party logistics providers face is managing the vast amount of inventory stored in their warehouses. The 3PL Warehouse Management System addresses this challenge by providing a comprehensive set of tools and functionalities to effectively manage and control warehouse operations.
At its core, the 3PL WMS is a software application that integrates with the existing warehouse infrastructure and automates various processes like inventory management, order fulfillment, and shipping. It provides real-time visibility into inventory levels. And it helps logistics providers optimize storage space and ensure accurate stock levels.
Moreover, the 3PL WMS enables efficient order processing by automating tasks like order picking, packing, and labeling. It provides warehouse staff with detailed instructions on how to fulfill each order, and this minimizes errors while improving overall productivity.
Another key feature of the 3PL WMS is its ability to track and trace goods throughout the warehouse. By using barcode scanning or RFID technology, the system can accurately track the movement of inventory from the moment it arrives at the warehouse to the moment it leaves for delivery.
Furthermore, the 3PL WMS offers advanced reporting and analytics capabilities. They can generate reports on key performance indicators like order accuracy, on-time delivery, and inventory turnover. This helps businesses identify areas for improvement.
In addition to these core functionalities, the 3PL WMS can be customized to meet the specific needs of different industries and clients. For example, it can support temperature-controlled storage for perishable goods or provide specialized picking algorithms for eCommerce fulfillment.
In conclusion, the 3PL Warehouse Management System is a powerful tool that enables third-party logistics providers to efficiently manage their clients' warehouse operations. By automating key processes and providing real-time visibility into inventory, the system helps improve productivity, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. It’s an indispensable asset for logistics providers in today's complex and competitive business environment.
To further understand the scope and benefits of third-party logistics, explore our detailed guide on 3PL services, which highlights how these services streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
Implementing a 3PL Warehouse Management System can bring numerous benefits to a company.
Firstly, it provides real-time visibility into stock levels and locations to reduce the risk of stockouts and minimize excess inventory.
Secondly, a 3PL WMS improves order fulfillment efficiency by automating processes like order picking and packing. This leads to faster order processing times and improved customer satisfaction.
Additionally, a 3PL Warehouse Management System lets companies optimize their warehouse space utilization. By providing insights into optimal storage locations and recommending efficient picking routes, it maximizes the storage capacity and minimizes unnecessary movement.
Lastly, a 3PL WMS enhances supply chain visibility by providing real-time tracking and reporting tools. This lets companies monitor the flow of goods, identify bottlenecks, and make data-driven decisions to improve overall efficiency.
Ecommerce businesses require specialized inventory management solutions to meet the dynamic demands of online retail. Learn more about ecommerce inventory management software that complements 3PL WMS for seamless integration and enhanced efficiency.
A good 3PL Warehouse Management System offers a range of features to support warehouse operations. These features include:
Choosing the right inventory management software is crucial for optimizing warehouse operations. Discover the best inventory management software options that can seamlessly integrate with 3PL WMS to provide comprehensive inventory control.
When considering a 3PL Warehouse Management System, it's important to assess the specific requirements of your business. Some key considerations include:
A key advantage of a 3PL Warehouse Management System is real-time visibility into warehouse operations.
Companies can access up-to-date information on inventory levels, order statuses, and overall performance at any time so businesses can quickly identify and address bottlenecks.
Following these steps will help you carefully plan and integrate a 3PL Warehouse Management System:
When choosing a 3PL Warehouse Management System, it's important to consider the following factors:
The cost of a 3PL Warehouse Management System can vary depending on factors like the size of your business, the features you want, and the vendor you choose. Some vendors offer pricing models based on the number of users or the volume of goods processed. Request quotes from different vendors and consider the long-term ROI when evaluating the cost of a 3PL WMS.
A 3PL WMS helps companies manage and optimize warehouse operations, including inventory management, order fulfillment, and reporting.
A 3PL Warehouse Management System can improve inventory accuracy, order fulfillment efficiency, warehouse space utilization, and supply chain visibility.
Key features include inventory tracking and management, order management, picking and packing optimization, real-time reporting tools, and system integration capabilities.
The cost varies depending on factors like the size of the business, desired features, and the vendor chosen. It's important to request quotes and consider long-term ROI.
TikTok Shop is discontinuing "seller shipping" on February 25, 2026, a move that will halt fulfillment for any 3PL using non-integrated legacy technology. ShipHero's WMS is fully integrated and approved to support TikTok Shop’s new logistics requirements, allowing you to generate compliant labels and avoid a total operational lockout. By migrating to ShipHero before the deadline, 3PLs can eliminate onboarding fees and ensure their clients’ businesses remain active and profitable.
Starting February 25, 2026, TikTok Shop is officially discontinuing "seller shipping" (also known as "bring your own label") for all U.S. local sellers.
This means your clients can no longer use their own carrier accounts for TikTok orders.
As their 3PL, you will be unable to generate labels unless your WMS is directly integrated with TikTok’s new ecosystem. To keep your clients' businesses running, you must transition them to TikTok Shop Logistics Services through a verified partner.
ShipHero can keep your 3PL orders flowing from February 25 onwards.
If you are running your warehouse on legacy systems, you are at risk of a complete TikTok Shop lockout. Your fulfillment—and your revenue—will simply stop that day.
TikTok's latest policy creates a massive bottleneck for 3PLs using legacy technology.
To help 3PLs transition quickly and stay compliant, we are waiving all onboarding fees for new customers who join ShipHero before February 25.
There are only 6 approved ERP/WMS providers globally that meet TikTok’s new integration standards. ShipHero WMS is on that list. Most legacy WMS providers are not currently approved. To avoid a total operational blackout for your clients, you must move to a verified partner like ShipHero.
No. Starting February 25, TikTok will discontinue seller shipping. All shipping must go through TikTok Shop Logistics Services.
No. You can still manage fulfillment from your own 3PL warehouse using ShipHero’s direct integration, which pulls the required TikTok labels and logic directly into your existing workflow.
You will lose the ability to generate shipping labels for any TikTok Shop order. This will result in immediate fulfillment backlogs, client dissatisfaction, and potential loss of contracts.
Yes. ShipHero is the only U.S. based WMS currently supporting these requirements, allowing 3PLs to continue shipping without interruption.
TikTok Shop is introducing mandatory logistics changes that will stop fulfillment for unprepared sellers on February 25, 2026.
ShipHero's WMS is fully integrated and approved to support TikTok Shop’s new logistics requirements, ensuring your orders keep moving without interruption. By switching to ShipHero before the deadline, brands can maintain compliance and eliminate onboarding fees during this transition. Here’s everything brands need to know to continue fulfilling orders.
Starting February 25, 2026, TikTok Shop will discontinue "seller shipping" for all U.S. local sellers. This means you can no longer use your own carrier accounts to generate labels for TikTok orders. To stay compliant and keep selling, brands must transition to TikTok Shop Logistics Services.
Relying on legacy systems like Extensiv, Deposco, or Logiwa puts your business at risk of account suspension and shipping delays that kill customer loyalty.
If your current WMS or 3PL is not integrated with TikTok Shop Logistics Services, you will face a total fulfillment blackout on that date. Failure to adapt to these changes risks shipping delays that kill customer loyalty and can lead to account suspension on the platform.
For brands onboarding on or after February 9, 2026, these restrictions are already in effect.
ShipHero has done the due diligence and has built a direct integration to ensure that merchants can fulfill TikTok Shop orders themselves while remaining fully compliant with TikTok’s new label requirements.
To help brands and 3PLs transition quickly and stay compliant, we are waiving all onboarding fees for new customers who join ShipHero before February 25.
Currently, there are only 6 approved ERP/WMS providers globally that meet TikTok’s new integration standards. ShipHero WMS is on that list. If you are using legacy providers like Extensiv, Deposco, or Logiwa, they are not currently approved to support these specific TikTok Shop requirements. To avoid a total operational blackout, you must move to a verified partner like ShipHero before the deadline.
No. Starting February 25, TikTok will discontinue seller shipping. You must use TikTok Shop Logistics Services.
You can use Fulfilled by TikTok (FBT) to store and ship items through their network, switch to one of the six approved ERP/WMS systems, or use ShipHero's direct integration.
You must use TikTok Shop Logistics Services, but with ShipHero, you can still manage the fulfillment from your own warehouse using TikTok’s required labels and logic.
This connection type will not support the new label requirements. You must switch to a direct TikTok Shop connection within ShipHero to avoid fulfillment interruptions.
Yes. ShipHero is currently the only U.S. based WMS that supports these requirements, allowing our customers to continue shipping without interruption.
Imagine running a warehouse where orders are picked quickly, inventory is accurate, and all operations run smoothly without any errors or delays. Thanks to Artificial Intelligence, this can now become a reality with ease.
AI is transforming warehouse management by enhancing efficiency, intelligence, and the ability to meet the rapid demands of today’s eCommerce-driven market.
ShipHero is pioneering this revolution with its AI-powered warehouse solutions, setting new industry benchmarks. This article explores ShipHero’s AI Picking feature, highlighting how it’s transforming warehouse management and enhancing operational efficiency.
The integration of AI technologies, including machine learning, robotics, and predictive analytics, is revolutionizing warehouse operations, driving significant improvements in efficiency, accuracy, and overall performance. These innovations are optimizing processes across various areas, from inventory management to order fulfillment. Below are the key benefits of AI in warehouse management.
A combination of AI technologies is shaping smarter warehouse systems to help revolutionize warehouse management.
ShipHero has taken AI integration to the next level with its AI Picking feature, designed to significantly improve warehouse efficiency. This feature automates the picking process, reducing the reliance on manual labor and enhancing productivity in ways that were once thought impossible.
Let’s dive deeper into how ShipHero’s AI Picking works and the advantages it offers.
AI Picking optimizes warehouse operations in two key ways:
The AI Picking feature delivers a wide range of benefits:
The transformative power of AI extends far beyond just picking. AI is also revolutionizing other aspects of warehouse management, driving improvements in operational efficiency, inventory management, and safety.
AI automates tasks, reducing errors and increasing speed. Automated sorting and real-time inventory tracking ensure accuracy, while real-time monitoring helps managers adapt and ensure timely deliveries.
AI plays a vital role in maintaining accurate inventory levels. By leveraging predictive analytics, AI can forecast demand and optimize stock levels, helping warehouses avoid both stockouts and overstock situations. This leads to better inventory management and fewer disruptions in supply chains.
AI-driven systems can monitor warehouse conditions to ensure safety and compliance with industry regulations. These systems can analyze warehouse data and predict potential hazards before they occur, proactively reducing risks and ensuring a safer working environment.
AI technologies are playing a transformative role in the supply chain and logistics sectors by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing decision-making.
These intelligent systems effortlessly manage supply chain processes by using data to optimize operations, predict trends, and automate routine tasks. This ultimately reshapes everything, from how goods are moved to stored and delivered.
The future of warehouse management looks promising with greater automation and efficiency, but future warehouse digitization brings challenges, such as high upfront costs and the need for skilled personnel.
AI-powered drones, autonomous robots, and IoT integration are smart warehouse technologies that are revolutionizing warehouse operations. Drones will deliver goods quickly, while robots automate sorting and transportation, thereby reducing the need for manual labor.
IoT and AI integration will enable real-time monitoring and optimization of operations. Smart technology in warehouses is leading to fully automated systems that are faster, scalable, and need minimal human input.
While AI offers immense benefits, businesses must also consider certain challenges. High initial investments in AI technology, data security concerns, and the need for skilled personnel are just a few of the hurdles that must be addressed.
However, with a strategic approach, companies can eliminate the challenges and embrace AI’s full potential to boost accuracy in picking and improve overall warehouse operations.
AI minimizes error by automating tasks like inventory tracking, order picking, and sorting, ensuring greater accuracy and efficiency.
Yes, AI-driven predictive analytics can predict demand, track inventory levels, and improve supply chain efficiency by forecasting needs with greater accuracy to help businesses stay ahead of trends and market fluctuations.
AI solutions are becoming more cost-effective thanks to cloud-based services and subscription pricing models. These options make AI technology more accessible to small businesses, allowing them to take advantage of its benefits without large upfront costs.
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