Manufacturer field guide

What goes into a useful 3PL brief?

Better operating information makes the scope and quotation more meaningful.

Describe the inventory

  • SKU count, unit of measure, case packs and barcodes.
  • Product, carton and pallet dimensions and gross weights.
  • Storage volumes, seasonality, stacking limits and approximate inventory value.
  • Any hazardous, medical, temperature-sensitive or special-handling characteristics.

Describe the order pattern

  • Orders per month, peak days and expected line items per order.
  • Case, pallet and parcel mix; typical destinations.
  • Required packing materials, inserts and labeling.
  • Retailer routing guides or fulfillment requirements that need an operator capability review.

Define receiving and returns

  • Inbound shipment frequency and whether inventory is palletized or floor-loaded.
  • Advance shipment information, appointment contact and discrepancy process.
  • Return inspection scope and restock, hold or disposal authority.

Ask for a complete quote

  • Receiving, storage unit and billing basis, picks and additional items.
  • Packaging, returns, kitting, minimums and exceptional work.
  • Systems access, reporting, cutoff times and claims process.
  • Transportation, duties and provider disbursements shown separately from fulfillment services.

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