3PL
Pronunciation: three-PEE-el
Also written as: 3PL — Third-Party Logistics
A third-party logistics provider that offers outsourced supply chain services including transportation, warehousing, and fulfilment.
Full Definition
Third-Party Logistics (3PL) refers to companies that manage logistics operations on behalf of other businesses, typically handling transportation, storage, order fulfilment, and customs brokerage. The use of 3PLs allows companies to focus on core competencies while leveraging specialised logistics expertise. Editors should note that '3PL' is the standard abbreviation; it should not be written as 'TPL' or 'third party logistics' (unhyphenated) when used as an adjective. The term is distinct from 4PL (fourth-party logistics), in which the provider also manages other 3PLs.
Usage
Usage note: Do not expand to 'third party logistics' without the hyphen when used attributively. Distinguish clearly from 4PL in documents that reference both models.
In Context
- "The retailer contracted a 3PL to manage its e-commerce fulfilment operations." — Supply chain strategy report
- "When used as an adjective before a noun, '3PL' requires no hyphen: '3PL provider'." — Style guide note