Third-party logistics (3PL) services are essential in the growing e-commerce marketplace. But can you be sure your clients are getting the quality they expect?
The e-commerce field is ever-growing. In 2019 alone, consumers spent nearly US 3.46 trillion on e-commerce sales. The process has made shopping faster, more convenient, and more global than ever.
The trick is that while customers purchase online, your manufacturing and shipment process remains on the ground. This means that you need to ensure that your goods get from your factory to your customers without losing any quality along the way.
E-commerce and 3PL
Buying online is not new, but the trend is rapidly increasing, as more and more people gain access to online shopping. The coronavirus outbreak is also set to further increase the e-commerce trend. With this newer way of shopping, come new ways to deliver goods – through third-party logistics (3PL) services.
3PL involves logistics partners who support the packaging and shipping stage of your products. These companies manage the supply chain, provide temporary warehousing, consolidate shipments to reduce costs, and ultimately fulfill customer orders.
Involving a 3PL company can be greatly beneficial to a business. As these companies have specific expertise in fulfilling e-commerce orders, they can ensure timely delivery. They are also well positioned to ensure flexibility, scalability, and efficiency when it comes to global shipping. Plus, third-party logistics companies invest in technology that makes the whole process run more smoothly.
Quality control in third-party logistics
Of course, any sort of outsourcing can involve certain risks. Once the product leaves your warehouse, you have less control over its quality. That is where HQTS comes in. We can ensure quality control in logistics, at all stages. This includes situations where you are working with a 3PL service provider.
The process is not so different from the quality assurance of your raw material suppliers. However, HQTS steps in after your product has left the factory. We can provide 3PL product inspections, loading supervision, unloading supervision, and warehouse audits or inspections.
Amazon Packaging Support and Supplier Network (APASS)
With Amazon being one of the largest e-commerce market players, your products may need to pass APASS testing. HQTS is APASS certified, meaning we can help walk you through the process. Whether you need to ensure frustration-free packaging or any other requirements for quality and packaging when it comes to using the Amazon e-commerce platform, we are here to help.
About HQTS
With over 25 years of experience in quality assurance, HQTS is ready to help your business build a robust quality assurance process. Our many service locations are prepared to be your one-stop-shop for your inspection needs, including 3PL product inspection, supervision, and warehouse audits. Contact us today to find out how we can help you navigate current quality control challenges.
