Turning Competencies into Strategic Advantage

Multiple, Dynamic Supply Chains Require Responsiveness and Technical Flexibility

The nature of a logistics service provider’s business is diversity. Every client has different customers, products, suppliers, carriers and geographies. To be successful, a third-party logistics provider needs to bring facilities, capabilities and broad experience to the table for each new client.

But it’s not only operating talent and facilities that wins business. Transcending the very different technical challenges and variety of competencies found in every community of clients, customers, suppliers and carriers is perhaps the most challenging hurdle to clear. The challenge is compounded with omnichannel distribution where more diversity in shipping destinations and configuration of orders occurs.

Very few supply chain communities are made up entirely of companies with best-in-class supply chain applications. Most company’s technical capabilities are average or below. System integration between participants that facilitates electronic collaboration is a requirement for any community of manufacturers, suppliers, carriers, warehouses and retailers to be successful. It requires operators to operationally integrate a growing number of systems including warehouse management, shipping, visibility, electronic interfaces and many more.

Taking the Lead Role

This sets up to be a very attractive value-add for logistics service providers who are technically equipped and accomplished in managing diversity, complexity and change.

The strategic investment required to integrate diverse systems and scattered data resources, while developing the necessary technical expertise, can be significant. Given the continual pressure of everyday logistics operations and delivery deadlines, building this competency internally is not a priority for most third-party operators. That’s where leadership in technical adaptation comes in. If a 3PL can meet and exceed shippers’ and carriers’ expectations by assisting less capable members of a supply chain, success is all but certain.

Building a reputation for successful collaborative logistics is usually rewarded with more opportunities. Cadre’s suite of warehouse and visibility systems have positioned many 3PLs to grow their leadership role and build new opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific systems do 3PLs need to integrate for effective collaboration?

3PLs typically need to integrate warehouse management systems, transportation management, order management, inventory tracking, EDI connections, carrier APIs, and customer portals. The exact combination depends on client requirements, but most successful integrations include at least 3-5 core systems. Modern 3PLs often add visibility platforms and analytics tools to enhance real-time collaboration across the supply chain network.

How long does it typically take to integrate systems across supply chain partners?

System integration timelines vary significantly based on complexity and partner readiness, typically ranging from 2-6 months for basic integrations. Simple EDI connections might take 4-8 weeks, while comprehensive multi-partner integrations can extend 6-12 months. Factors affecting timeline include legacy system compatibility, data quality, testing requirements, and the technical capabilities of all participating companies in the supply chain.

Why do most companies have below-average supply chain technical capabilities?

Many companies prioritize core business operations over supply chain technology investments due to limited budgets and expertise. Supply chain systems are often viewed as cost centers rather than strategic assets, leading to underinvestment. Additionally, rapid technological evolution makes it challenging for companies to maintain current capabilities, especially smaller businesses that lack dedicated IT resources for complex logistics technology.

What are the main risks of poor system integration in supply chains?

Poor integration leads to data silos, inventory inaccuracies, delayed shipments, and increased manual processes that create errors. Companies experience reduced visibility across operations, making it difficult to respond to disruptions quickly. Customer satisfaction suffers due to order delays and communication gaps, while operational costs increase from inefficient processes and duplicate data entry across disconnected systems.

How can 3PLs measure the success of their technical integration efforts?

Key metrics include order accuracy rates, on-time delivery performance, system uptime, and data exchange speed between partners. 3PLs should track client retention rates, new business acquisition, and operational cost reductions achieved through automation. Customer satisfaction scores and the ability to onboard new clients quickly also indicate successful technical capabilities that create competitive advantages in the marketplace.