4PL VS, 3PL: HOW EACH CAN ENHANCE SUPPLY CHAIN A 4PL manages the complete supply chain, whereas a 3PL concentrates on logistics. This is the primary distinction between a 4PL and a 3PL provider. Lead logistics providers (LLPs), also referred to as fourth-party logistics (4PL) providers, have a broad role within the supply chain. They assume many of the same roles as third-party logistics (3PL) providers, but have much broader responsibility and accountability in helping the customer reach its strategic goals "Accountability and control help differentiate a 3PL from a 4PL," "As a 4PL, we become a trusted advisor, and the customer becomes reliant on our data to drive them forward." When functioning as a 4PL, a logistics service provider becomes a true partner with the customer. They work to create a lean, cost-effective supply chain. "The 4PL is the big umbrella. Under the umbrella you have all of the supply chains ~ transportation, warehouses and anything that is moving," Moses says. "The 4PL manages the big umbrella. That brings more sense of control and ownership.” A 4PL typically directs every moving part within the customer's supply chain and serves as a single point of contact for all parties involved, says Moses. An LLP's role typically includes managing and analyzing large amounts of data, overseeing transportation management, managing other 3PLs and transportation service providers, supervising warehouse operations, or operating any other portion of the supply chain. "3PLs are very transactional. As a 4PL, you're leading that customer," Moses says, adding that 4PL relationships typically evolve from a 3PL relationship. "The customer becomes reliant on our data to drive them forward. Eventually we are sitting at the table with them, and the operational component is expected." An LLP (or 4PL) works to: + Optimize transportation operations + Coordinate suppliers + Integrate supply chain technologies + Synchronize inbound logistics and outbound logistics flows + Model and manage distribution networksAs an LLP, a 4PL uses its high level of visibility, real-time information, communication abilities and broad knowledge to align 3PLs, customers and service providers. A 4PL draws on the data it collects. In addition, it collects, stores and manages data from other supply chain partners. That visibility plays a key role in allowing the customer and 4PL to provide seamless supply chain services, improve customer service, manage exceptions, and remove costs and inefficiencies from the supply chain, How 3PLs and 4PLs Work ‘Together When a 3PL transitions to a 4PL, it changes the type of information the provider may access. "I am still a Penske employee, but I am cut off from financial information at Penske because I am working in the customer's best interest," Moses says, adding that AP's goal is to find the best overall transportation solution for its customer. "Penske submits bids, but I am comparing them to bids from their competitors.” Transparency is key for 4PLs that may also function as a 3PL. They must proactively work with customers to demonstrate the checks and balances they put in place, such as creating confidentiality agreements that prohibit the sharing of information and data from the customer's other 3PLs and transportation providers. Building trust as a 3PL helps smooth the transition to a 4PL function, "You have to build relationships ahead of time, and we do that as a 3PL," Moses says. "Then, as a 4PL, you have to deliver and put it into action." Defining IPL, 2PL, 3PL, 4PL and SPL using the distribution hierarchy in the graphic above: What is a 1PL? - First-Party Logistics. A farmer delivers carrots to the grocery store for sale. What is a 2PL? - Second-Party Logistics. A cartier delivers carrots from farm to grocery store on behalf of the farmer. What is a 3PL? - Third-Party Logistics. A company packs, stores and transports carrots from farm to grocery store for the farmer. What is a 4PL? - Fourth-Party Logistics. A logistics company manages one or more 3PLs for the farmer and oversees most or all of the carrot packaging and delivery to the grocery store. What is a SPL? - Fifth-Party Logistics. A logistics company manages the entire supply chain on behalf of the farmer, from production to delivery.PL. Larger scale of operational management: You can save time and effort managing logistics yourself, The 4PL will handle the full supply chain like warehousing, shipping, distribution, and physical sites. Advance technology: The 4Pl. software and automation help improve communication across the network and increase visibility in real time, Solution-oriented approach: 4P1 providers design the solution specifically to meet your needs. Theit expertise in end-to-end operations like warehousing, distribution, freight, and software let them create the best solutions for your business. Single views A 4PL centralizes data from multiple 3PL providers to give youa single view of your metrics and performance. This includes data on inventory, order status, billing, and shipment status across the network, Hence, you can stay updated on your supply chain and react quicker to ‘market demands, 3PL Big resource network: A 3PL has a large resource network that can handle your end-to-end order fulfillment. Compared to doing fulfilment yourself, outsourcing to a 3PL can be more efficient thanks to their relationships and discounts. Save time and money: A 3PL. provider saves you overhead costs and offers faster service. You don't need a huge investment in warehouse space, _ technology, transportation, and staff to carry out the logistics process. Scalability and flexibility: 3PLs have scalable resources like space, labor, and transportation that can adapt to your inventory needs for seasonal demands. Thus, you can rest assured that Inventory and warehouse costs don't hurt your bottom line, International reach: 3PLs are professionals with knowledge of global markets, regulations, and government agencies. They help you manage international shipping activities such as custom clearance