10 Reasons To Consider Leaving Your Current 3PL
BarrettGPT • April 11, 2023
Is your current 3PL failing your brand?
As a supply chain professional, it is important to regularly evaluate your logistics partners and ensure they are meeting your needs. One such partner that often requires evaluation is your third-party logistics provider (3PL). While it may be tempting to stick with the same 3PL for years, there are several reasons why you should consider leaving your current provider. In this article, we will discuss 10 reasons why you should consider switching 3PLs.
- Poor Performance: If your 3PL consistently fails to meet your service level agreements (SLAs) and performance metrics, it may be time to look for a new provider. Your customers expect timely and accurate delivery, and if your 3PL is consistently falling short, it can damage your brand reputation.
- Limited Capabilities: As your business grows, your logistics needs will likely become more complex. If your current 3PL lacks the necessary capabilities to support your growth, it may be time to consider a provider with more expansive services.
- Lack of Visibility: Real-time visibility into your inventory and shipments is critical for making informed decisions and ensuring timely delivery. If your 3PL lacks the technology or processes to provide you with accurate and timely visibility, it can create unnecessary headaches and delays.
- High Costs: Cost is always a consideration when it comes to logistics. If your 3PL's pricing structure is not competitive or transparent, it may be time to look for a provider that can offer more cost-effective solutions.
- Limited Geographical Coverage: If your business requires nationwide or global distribution, your 3PL should be able to support your needs. If your current provider has limited geographical coverage or lacks the necessary infrastructure to support your business, it may be time to consider a provider with a more expansive network.
- Lack of Flexibility: Your business needs may change quickly, and your 3PL should be able to adapt to those changes. If your current provider lacks the flexibility to adjust to your changing needs, it may be time to look for a more adaptable provider.
- Poor Customer Service: Communication is key when it comes to logistics. If your 3PL is unresponsive or difficult to work with, it can create unnecessary stress and delays. Look for a provider with a reputation for exceptional customer service.
- Limited Technology: Technology is advancing rapidly in the logistics industry, and your 3PL should be keeping up with the latest trends. If your current provider lacks the necessary technology to support your needs, it may be time to look for a provider with more advanced solutions.
- Lack of Innovation: Along with technology, innovation is critical for staying ahead in the logistics industry. If your current 3PL lacks a culture of innovation and is not constantly looking for ways to improve, it may be time to consider a more forward-thinking provider.
- Incompatible Company Culture: Lastly, it is important to consider your company's values and culture when choosing a 3PL. If your current provider's values and culture do not align with yours, it can create unnecessary friction and make it difficult to work together effectively.
If any of these 10 reasons resonate with your current situation, it may be time to consider switching 3PLs. At Barrett Distribution, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional logistics solutions to DTC and omnichannel ecommerce brands looking to scale their outbound orders with a national provider. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help support your business's logistics needs.
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FRANKLIN, Mass., Aug. 11, 2026 — Barrett Distribution Centers , a leading third-party logistics provider specializing in eCommerce fulfillment, announced a new partnership with PAHI Footwear , an emerging footwear and wellness brand focused on balance, stability and confidence. Barrett is providing omnichannel warehousing, fulfillment and managed transportation services from its Memphis fulfillment campus to support PAHI's direct-to-consumer, independent retail and mass retail channels. "As a growing brand, choosing the right fulfillment partner was a big decision for us," said Luke Schapfel , logistics manager at PAHI. "From the beginning, Barrett took the time to understand our business and where we're headed. Their team was responsive, easy to work with and genuinely invested in helping us build the right foundation for growth. That gave us confidence we had the right partner." The implementation began in late 2025 with a phased rollout. Barrett first onboarded PAHI's direct-to-consumer (D2C) business before expanding support to independent retailers and national retail partners throughout the second and third quarters of 2026. "Barrett has a successful history working with emerging apparel and footwear brands and helping them scale across omnichannel programs," said Scott Hothem , senior vice president of customer solutions at Barrett. "We're excited to support PAHI as it builds its presence in the U.S. market from our Memphis fulfillment campus. We look forward to helping the brand grow across both direct-to-consumer and retail channels." Barrett currently supports approximately 500 SKUs of men's and women's footwear for PAHI across direct-to-consumer, independent retail and mass retail channels. The partnership provides PAHI with a scalable fulfillment foundation as the brand continues to grow across channels. About PAHI Footwear PAHI was born from a simple yet powerful vision: to create footwear that combines comfort, innovation, and stability. The brand was founded to meet the growing need for footwear that offers not only style but also balance and support, empowering people to move with confidence throughout their daily lives. Drawing inspiration from the 5000-year-old twin-hull boat technology, PAHI introduced the P.O.R.T. system, revolutionizing how shoes provide balance. About Barrett Distribution Centers Since 1941, Barrett has provided customized third-party logistics (3PL), direct-to-consumer (DTC) eCommerce fulfillment, omnichannel distribution, managed transportation solutions and retail compliance for clients across all industries, with a focus on apparel & footwear, health & beauty, consumer packaged goods (CPG) and education. Barrett continues to be a leading 3rd party logistics provider in North America, known for superior execution, customer engagement and direct access to senior leadership decision makers. As a member of Inc's fastest growing companies list 15+ times, Barrett is big enough to do the job and still small enough to deeply care about your business. Brands interested in a new 3PL partnership may contact Barrett directly here . Media Contact: Faith Artieda Marketing Content Specialist faith.artieda@barrettdistribution.com
