When partnering with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider, it’s common for businesses to have concerns about losing control over their shipments. Shippers often fear that a 3PL won't prioritize them and their shipments, or that they'll have less visibility and communication throughout the shipping process.
Maintaining control over logistics is paramount for shippers. From a practical standpoint, shippers need to be able to keep their clients updated and aware throughout the shipping process, and make changes or adjustments if issues arise. From a more emotional point of view, giving up control of such a fundamental part of their business to a third party who may not share their high standards can cause undue anxiety in an already stressful work environment.
Shippers partner with 3PLs like S-2 in order to streamline their operations so they can reallocate valuable time and manpower to focus on growing other parts of their business. But relinquishing control of their shipping processes, even a small amount, can make the investment in a 3PL relationship feel like more trouble than it’s worth. They seek a balance with their 3PL partner between delegating important work and maintaining oversight and authority over their shipping needs.
S-2 understands the importance of transparency, visibility, and collaboration with their clients to ensure they retain agency over their logistics operations. Outsourcing logistics tasks to a 3PL like S-2 provides shippers numerous benefits – not worries – including customizable delivery options, personalized shipping solutions, and zero loss of control.
In this article, we’ll explore how shippers can maintain control over their shipments when partnering with S-2, highlighting their proactive tracking, advanced technology solutions, personalized service, and collaborative approach to customer engagement.
S-2 recognizes that visibility is key to empowering shippers and enabling them to consistently oversee their shipments. Their proactive tracking approach leverages a combination of cutting-edge technology and dedicated personnel to provide consistent visibility regarding the status and location of shipments throughout the supply chain.
S-2’s advanced tracking systems provide exceptional monitoring capabilities where shippers can access up-to-date information about their products. This includes detailed tracking updates, current delivery status, and notifications regarding any delays. Their integrated tracking solutions, powered by S-2’s expert tracking team, also provide for the identification of potential issues proactively so real-time corrections and interventions can occur to help ensure shipments arrive at their destination on time and in optimal condition.
Additionally, S-2’s team of experienced logistics professionals acts as an extension of their clients' operations. The S-2 team provides personalized support and guidance every step of the way. From active communication to proactive problem-solving, every S-2 client works with a dedicated account management team who are committed to ensuring that shippers have the information and assistance they need at all times throughout the shipment process.
Maintaining control over shipments is about more than technology. The team at S-2 prides itself on building strong, synergistic relationships between shippers and their 3PL provider. This means fostering open communication and prioritizing collaboration between all parties. They work closely with each individual shipper to understand their unique needs, goals, preferences, and business objectives.
Trust and confidence throughout the entire shipment process starts with strong, person-to-person communication. This informs S-2’s ultimate mission: to provide “Service Delivered with Heart.”
By establishing clear communication channels and maintaining open lines of dialogue, S-2 makes sure that shippers are actively involved in the logistics process from start to finish. Whether it's discussing shipment priorities, addressing concerns, or exploring opportunities for optimization, S-2’s team is committed to partnering with shippers every step of the way. They understand trust isn’t just freely given — it’s earned. The only true way to trust in one another is through exceptional communication.
S-2 recognizes that every business is unique, with its own set of challenges, priorities, and objectives. That's why they take a personalized approach to service delivery, tailoring solutions to meet the specific needs and preferences of each client.
For example, S-2 partnered with a small e-commerce business that was initially concerned about losing the ability to oversee their shipments when outsourcing to a 3PL. However, they found that S-2’s advanced tracking processes and dedicated account management team provided them with even greater visibility and management options for their shipments than they had before. By leveraging cutting-edge technology solutions and collaborating closely with S-2’s team, the client was able to optimize their logistics operations, improve customer satisfaction, and drive growth.
S-2’s technology integration efforts play a key role in shippers’ ability to maintain control every step of the way. These technology solutions include S-2’s client portal and real-time tracking software, which allow businesses the freedom to:
By leveraging these tools, shippers can actually increase visibility and options for their logistics operations, regardless of their size or complexity. It also enables businesses to solve any concerns with immediate, real-time solutions to avoid issues before they ever arise.
S-2 knows maintaining control over shipments while working with a 3PL is absolutely essential for shippers seeking to optimize their supply chain operations and drive business success. S-2 is committed to open communication with their clients in order to foster the relationship needed for trust and efficiency. They provide their clients with the tools, support, and expertise they need to maintain control over their shipments and achieve their logistics goals.
Through their proactive tracking approach, collaborative customer engagement model, and commitment to service quality and tailored solutions, S-2 enables shippers to navigate the complexities of the global supply chain with confidence and ease.
Check back soon for our next article where we’ll explore the importance of partnering with a 3PL you can count on, and how to spot a reliable 3PL partner. Until then, if you’re ready to streamline your business and continue to grow, contact S-2 now to schedule a free demo of their services.