3PLs Industry

Third-party logistics operations manage constant change — shifting SKUs, variable order volumes, fast client onboarding timelines, and expectations for quick turnaround. Tailored material handling solutions can create a more efficient and consistent workflow that supports these demands without locking you into rigid systems that can’t adapt to change.

Why Automation Matters for 3PL Facilities

Third-party logistics environments rely on flexibility. Automation helps create the structure needed to maintain stable productivity while providing room to scale. With the proper configuration, you can move products through receiving, storage, picking, packing, and shipping with greater speed and fewer manual touches.

At Solutions In Action, we design automation systems for third-party logistics providers that adapt to shifting volumes, diverse product types, and evolving client needs.

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Packages blur as they rush past on the complex conveyor belt system that sorts them for delivery at a large fulfillment center.

3PL Material Handling Automation Solutions

Here are some of the most frequent applications of 3PL material handling automation solutions:

A well-designed conveyor or transfer system helps produce a smooth flow from the dock to storage locations. Tailored layouts can support high-volume receiving, cross-docking, or rapid slotting of new SKUs.

3PLs often balance palletized inventory, cartons, and each-picks. Our approach provides scalable material handling for 3PL warehouses, ensuring your facility is prepared for peak seasons or onboarding new clients.

Automation plays a key role in maintaining accuracy during peak seasons or high-volume days. Conveyor-supported pick modules, robotic picking technologies, or zone-based layouts streamline picking and reduce unnecessary travel time.

Tailored automation can bring items from multiple pick zones into a single packing area. This helps reduce bottlenecks and maintains a steady throughput, even when order volumes spike.

Automated sortation and conveyor systems direct orders to the correct lane or dock, helping your team meet strict carrier cutoff times.

Benefits for 3PL Providers

Some benefits of third-party logistics (3PL) include:

  • Adaptability: Your layout and technologies can support a diverse range of product types, packaging requirements, and fulfillment processes. This flexibility helps you onboard new clients without a major operational overhaul.
  • Improved throughput: Automated movement reduces manual handling and supports a consistent and predictable workflow. This helps your team keep up with rising demands while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
  • Better space utilization: Tailored systems take full advantage of your existing footprint, whether you’re working with narrow aisles, multilevel pick modules, or complex traffic patterns.
  • Lower labor strain: Automation supports repetitive or high-volume tasks, enabling your team to focus on areas where their expertise adds the most value.
  • Data and visibility: Integrated systems offer a more comprehensive view of order status, inventory movement, and workflow patterns. This can support planning, reporting, and client communication.

With 3PL warehouse automation and integration, you gain unified control over inventory flow, picking, packing, and shipping processes.

Let’s Discuss Your Needs

At Solutions In Action, we understand that 3PL operations are unique, so we start by understanding how your facility operates today and what you want to support tomorrow. From there, our team designs a material handling system that fits your workflow and adapts as your business grows. We stay involved through design, installation, and ongoing support so your system continues to meet your needs.

If you’re ready to improve throughput and flexibility, our automation solutions tailored for 3PL providers can help you meet your operational goals. Contact us today.

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