What Makes a Great 3PL Partner? 5 Questions to Ask Before You Book
In today’s fast-moving supply chain landscape, choosing the right third-party logistics (3PL) provider can make or break your business. Whether you're managing regional deliveries or nationwide distribution, your 3PL should be more than just a vendor—they should be a true partner.
At Driven Group, we’ve seen firsthand how the right 3PL can streamline operations, reduce costs, and elevate a brand. Before you commit to a provider, ask these five essential questions to ensure you're choosing a logistics partner who will deliver long-term value.
1. Do They Have Control Over Their Capacity?
Not all 3PLs are created equal. Some rely entirely on third-party carriers, while others invest in their own fleet and assets. A great 3PL should either own equipment or have close, established relationships with a reliable carrier network.
- Can they guarantee capacity during peak periods?
- Do they offer asset-based services?
- Can they back up their service promises with actual control?
At Driven Group, we’re proud to be both a full-service freight brokerage and an asset-based 3PL, giving us unmatched flexibility and reliability.
2. Do They Offer Real-Time Visibility and Communication?
Supply chains run on data—and without clear communication and visibility, things fall apart fast. A top-tier 3PL should keep you fully informed from pickup to delivery.
Look for:
- Real-time GPS tracking on shipments
- Automated status updates and alerts
- Access to live operations support, 24/7
Driven Group uses modern tracking tools and proactive communication to make sure you always know where your freight is—and when it’s arriving.
3. Do They Understand Your Industry and Freight Type?
Industry knowledge matters. Whether you’re moving temperature-sensitive goods, high-value electronics, or dry freight, your 3PL should understand the nuances of your cargo.
Questions to ask:
- Do they have experience with your product type?
- Can they manage compliance requirements or special handling needs?
- Do they have success stories in your sector?
Driven Group brings over 20 years of logistics experience, moving everything from food-grade freight to complex retail supply chains. We know what it takes to move your freight the right way.
4. Are They Focused on Performance—Not Just Price?
The lowest rate means nothing if the freight arrives late, damaged, or not at all. A reliable 3PL should emphasize service quality and consistent performance over cutting corners.
Ask:
- What’s your on-time delivery rate?
- How do you handle delays or service failures?
- Do you offer performance reports or KPIs?
At Driven Group, we’re obsessed with reliability. We plan every shipment with precision and take pride in our track record of on-time, damage-free deliveries.
5. Will They Scale With You?
As your business grows, your logistics needs will evolve. Your 3PL should be built to scale—whether that means supporting new markets, handling higher volumes, or integrating with your systems.
Look for:
- Nationwide or multi-regional coverage
- Scalable infrastructure and fleet
- Strategic planning and long-term partnership mindset
Driven Group is growing rapidly, expanding both our asset fleet and brokerage network to meet increasing demand across the Northeast, Southeast, and beyond.
Choosing the Right 3PL is a Strategic Move
Logistics isn’t just about moving freight—it’s about building trust, reducing risk, and creating competitive advantage. Asking the right questions up front can help you avoid costly mistakes and build a supply chain partner that grows with your business.
At Driven Group, we bring the capacity, transparency, and experience to help you succeed in any market.
