U.S. shipping container imports have fallen significantly in 2025 due to imposed tariffs on international goods. Combined with signs such as an increase of blank sailings earlier in the year, economic uncertainty has been a prevalent theme for both the maritime shipping industry and businesses alike. For companies that wish to reduce international shipping costs amid looming economic concerns like inflation and tariffs, a strategic partnership with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider can make a noteworthy difference in operational efficiency across the board.
Expert approach facilitates smoother operation
A 3PL partnership provides unique opportunities for companies that wish to optimize their operations from the ground up, even during economic uncertainty. The underlying expertise of a reputable 3PL, for instance, can make a specific yet fundamental difference that is difficult to ignore. 3PL shipping solutions that prioritize a personalized and tailored experience, for instance, can bring to light expert-level considerations that result in a streamlined shipping experience from top to bottom. These considerations range from knowledge on the various challenges (and opportunities) throughout various industries, all the while the maintenance of a thoughtful balance between logistical aspects such as the technology, strategy, and the role of human experts. When combined with effective communication, a proactive 3PL relationship can truly revamp operations from the ground up.
Recent news has only highlighted the value of 3PL partnerships. The Swedish light-shaping technology company Profoto, for example, recently chose Barret Distribution Centers as a 3PL provider in the U.S.. A PR Newswire article provided by Barrett Distribution Centers Inc. details the new partnership, in which Barrett’s answer involves a number of logistical tasks. Among them include the receiving of ocean (and airfreight) shipments, inventory management, and returns processing — to highlight a few solutions. The article also cites the words of the business operations and IT manager at Profoto, Daniella Stople, who noted that Barret Distribution Centers featured an optimal location, attention to detail, and “strong systems and analytics” as standout factors behind the choice. “Most of all, it was the people,” Stolpe stated, going on to note that Barrett was genuinely invested in a partnership that will stand the test of time.
A strategic partnership with a 3PL can have a significant impact on the consumer, with advantages that range from better order accuracy to quicker deliveries that are more reliable, too. To further address the positive and far-reaching impact that a successful 3PL partnership can have, a Forbes article by councils member Harshida Acharya notes that 73% of shippers report that the use of a third-party logistics provider has resulted in “a more positive experience” for consumers, according to a 2022 study from Third-Party Logistics. The study also found that a 3PL partnership had brought to light new solutions for improved “logistics effectiveness,” the Forbes article highlights.
3PLs bring to light reduced costs
The cost of international shipping has surged in recent years. A mid-2024 Forbes article by Bill Conerly notes that the cost had risen over the prior 18 months for a variety of different products. “This contrasts with the decades-long era of declining inflation-adjusted costs,” Conerly wrote. In 2025, factors that influence a heightened cost in the maritime shipping industry range from current geopolitical tensions as well as various changes to trade policies (tariffs, for instance).
While it may seem a bit counterintuitive to invest in a new partnership now, 2025’s economic climate can make a successful 3PL relationship well worth the time. Strategic partnerships with a 3PL can result in elevated financial stability due to the shared resources and costs, with such a partnership even having the potential to lead to growth in revenue, American Global Logistics notes. For example, through more efficient and optimized routes, a 3PL is able to secure lower shipping costs, though this can have a ripple effect, as it can minimize transit times, shorten delivery, and contribute to heightened productivity throughout the supply chain.
Potential negatives and valuable approaches
3PL partnerships are associated with an array of benefits, though there are a few potential negatives that companies must consider. Hidden fees, for example, can counter the cost-effective nature of a successful partnership. On the other hand, an over-reliance on the 3PL can contribute to a loss of control in regard to the logistical processes of the business. This can become a real risk, as a 3PL can take up a significant number of tasks. An unsuccessful or mismatched partnership can also result in challenges surrounding communication, which can minimize the potential for streamlined operations and optimal efficiency. To further underline the significance of a role that a 3PL can have, a 2024 Forbes article by Anar Mammadov notes that many offer services that range from transportation to warehousing to distribution, as well as inventory management (to name just a few). The magnitude of such a role places heavy importance on the selection process, which must be thoughtful in nature.
When the goal is a successful 3PL partnership, companies must factor in several crucial considerations in order to achieve the right balance. Well-respected 3PL partners that offer customization as well as favorable pricing structure are ideal, alongside a reputation of expertise in the field. In August of 2024, global logistics company DHL launched the Small Business PartnerSHIP Program for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) throughout the United States. The program specifically hopes to assist SMEs grow on a global level, with benefits that include simplified shipping solutions, shipping promo codes, and access to mentorships in addition to “dedicated support from Certified International Specialists,” to highlight just a few noted in the DHL press release. While the press release doesn’t discuss large-scale business operations or specific shipping container logistics, it does showcase the value that a reputable and well-known expert 3PL can have for those who are new to the idea of global expansion.
For businesses that wish to streamline efficiency amid the economic challenges of today, a 3PL partnership presents a variety of advantages. With benefits that range from cost to the value that expertise can add, a balanced partnership can make a fundamental difference for those who prioritize productivity and optimal outcomes.
