Learn how 3PLs work before you pick one
Explainers on outsourced fulfillment: what a 3PL does, how it differs from Amazon, carriers and platforms, and how to choose a provider that fits.
3PL basics
3PL vs 4PL: What Each Does and When a Brand Needs a 4PLA 3PL runs your warehouse work; a 4PL manages the providers who do it. See the 1PL to 5PL ladder, 4 ways a 4PL bills and when a growing brand needs one.
3PL Warehousing for Growing Brands: Costs, Terms and Types3PL warehousing lets you rent space, staff and systems instead of signing a lease. Follow 1 container through, compare 3 setups and price a 90-pallet month.
Contract Logistics: What It Covers, Costs and When It FitsContract logistics is a multi-year deal for a provider to run your warehousing and transport. Compare it with a 3PL rate card and see 3 pricing models.- How to Choose a 3PL: 5 Fit Tests Before You Compare PriceChoose a 3PL on fit first: products, location, service levels, integrations and scope. Then price each bid on 1 sample month and settle 5 contract terms.
What Is a 3PL? How Outsourced Fulfillment Works for BrandsA 3PL stores your stock and ships your orders for a set of fees. See how it works, what 800 orders a month costs, and 6 signs your brand is ready for one.
What Is a Fulfillment Center? Zones, Costs and Amazon FBAA fulfillment center turns stored stock into shipped parcels, usually the same day. Walk its 6 zones, see 5 numbers to hold one to, and when a second site pays.
Amazon, carriers and platforms
- 3PL vs Amazon FBA: 2026 Costs, Peak Fees and When Each WinsAmazon charges $5.61 to fulfill a 1.4 lb FBA order in 2026, delivery included. See where a 3PL wins: Q4 storage, other channels, wholesale and branded boxes.
- Is Amazon FBA a 3PL? What It Does and Where It StopsYes, for Amazon orders: FBA stores, packs and ships your stock. See 2026 fees ($5.04 for a 1.1 lb item), how MCF and AWD fit, and when a 3PL fits better.
Is FedEx a 3PL? Carrier Work, Fulfillment and the 2026 SaleFedEx is a carrier first. Its 3PL arm, FedEx Supply Chain, went to CMA CGM for $1.4 billion on October 1, 2026. See what FedEx still runs and how to use it.
Is Shopify a 3PL? What It Does and Who Ships Your OrdersNo. Shopify runs your store and a 3PL runs the warehouse. See the 8 providers in its Fulfillment Network app, who bills you and who fixes what goes wrong.