¹û¶³´«Ã½

When it comes to choosing a third-party logistics (3PL) partner, most companies focus on the obvious: price and technology. Sure, those matter — but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Bryan Corbett , VP of Sales and Marketing at ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers, has reviewed dozens of RFPs this year from fast-growing DTC startups to Fortune 100 companies. And time after time, he’s seen three often-overlooked factors that can make or break a 3PL relationship. Here are the top three things Bryan says every brand should consider when selecting a 3PL: 1. Choose a 3PL You Can Grow With This is the big one. Don’t pick a 3PL based solely on what your business needs today. Pick a partner that can scale with you in a year, three years, or even five years down the road. The most successful brands think ahead and ask: Who can help us reach our future state? Who has the infrastructure, people and mindset to evolve with us? It’s easy to treat a 3PL search like checking a box—but if you do that, you risk locking into a provider that can’t support your growth. Look for a strategic partner, not just a service provider. If growth isn’t part of your roadmap, you might want to revisit your goals altogether. 2. People Matter—A Lot You grow with people, not platforms. The team behind your 3PL will become an extension of your business, so you need to feel confident they’d fit right in on your own org chart. Ask yourself during the RFP process: Can I picture these people working at our company? Do they “get” our brand and how we operate? At ¹û¶³´«Ã½, we always say we’re only as strong as the GMs and ops leaders inside our buildings. That’s why we encourage prospective partners to go beyond sales conversations. Meet the actual people running the floor. Build relationships with the folks you’ll be emailing and calling when it matters most. 3. Don’t Underestimate Culture Fit If the first two points are about future potential and strong people, culture is the glue that holds it all together. Alignment on work ethic, speed of execution and communication styles plays a huge role in long-term success. When things go wrong—and at some point, they will—you want to be aligned on how to solve problems and how quickly you move. We’ve seen deals fall apart not because of cost or capabilities, but because of mismatched cultures. On the flip side, when we meet a brand that feels like a natural fit for ¹û¶³´«Ã½, we know the partnership will thrive. Final Thought Price and tech are table stakes. But if you want a long-term, high-impact 3PL partnership, look deeper. Ask these three questions: Can this partner grow with us? Do they have the right people in place? Are we aligned culturally? When those answers are yes, you’ll set your supply chain—and your business—up for real success. Have questions about finding the right 3PL fit? Contact us to schedule a complimentary supply chain consultation today.

FRANKLIN, Mass., July 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Profoto , the global leader in light-shaping technology for imaging professionals, has selected ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers as its third-party logistics (3PL) provider in the United States. Operations are now live at one of ¹û¶³´«Ã½'s facilities in Somerset, N.J. As premium brands face increased pressure to deliver faster and more reliably, Profoto's partnership with ¹û¶³´«Ã½ reflects the growing need for logistics providers that can move quickly without sacrificing quality. "We ran a competitive RFP process, led by our global partner, Establish Inc. , and ¹û¶³´«Ã½ quickly rose to the top," said Daniella Stolpe , business operations and IT manager at Profoto. "Their location near our key customer in New York, strong systems and analytics, and attention to detail really impressed us. Most of all, it was the people. ¹û¶³´«Ã½ was responsive, thorough and truly invested in building a long-term partnership." ¹û¶³´«Ã½'s solution includes receiving ocean and airfreight shipments, cycle-count inventory management, secure pick-and-pack services for fragile goods, returns processing, parcel and LTL transportation management and supply procurement. "Profoto faced a sudden non-renewal from its previous 3PL, creating an urgent need for a smooth transition," said Sally Caputo , head of 3PL services at Establish. "¹û¶³´«Ã½ delivered an on-time go-live with API integration, real-time visibility and improved shipping rates. We've placed other clients with them and continue to see the high-level service we expect." To meet the tight timeline, ¹û¶³´«Ã½'s engineering and IT teams designed a flexible warehouse layout and completed a fast-tracked integration aligned with Profoto's ERP migration. "Profoto needed a partner who could move fast and scale with their growth," said Scott Wilkins , vice president of customer solutions at ¹û¶³´«Ã½. "Our team delivered on time and collaborated seamlessly. We're proud to support their U.S. expansion." The partnership highlights how ¹û¶³´«Ã½ meets high-performance brands' complex supply chain needs through personalized solutions, real-time visibility and scalable operations. About Profoto Founded in 1968 and headquartered in Sweden, Profoto is the world's leading manufacturer of photography lighting equipment, trusted by the best photographers in the industry, especially in fashion. With presence in nearly 50 countries and subsidiaries in New York, Tokyo, Hamburg, Paris, London and Scandinavia, Profoto sets the standard for innovation and quality. Combining a legacy of photographic excellence with a dynamic, disciplined culture, Profoto delivers premium lighting solutions that shape the future of professional image creation. About ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers Since 1941, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ 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. ¹û¶³´«Ã½ 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, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ 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 ¹û¶³´«Ã½ directly here . About Establish Inc. Establish is a supply chain consulting firm offering specialized services in the optimization of the supply chain. With over 50 years of experience and thousands of projects under their belts, Establish has been trusted by some of the largest and best-known corporations in North America and Europe as well as smaller companies. Establish's lasting success is attributed to their team of the sharpest mathematicians and analysts; armed with the state-of-the-art tools. The delivery of both quantitative analytics and strategic insights makes Establish uniquely qualified to service their clients most pressing supply chain needs. Establish approaches each engagement ensuring recommendations are actionable and sustainable, even leading the implementation of new initiatives through steady state.  Official Release Here

Teaneck, NJ – June 20, 2025 – Made4net, a global provider of cloud-based Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and end-to-end supply chain execution software , proudly presented the first-ever Made4net Award for Advancing Innovation in Third-Party Logistics at the 2025 IWLA Convention & Expo, held May 4–6 in Tucson, Arizona. This new award honors an IWLA member company demonstrating exceptional vision, leadership, and commitment to driving innovation in the 3PL space. ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½ was named the inaugural recipient of the award for its forward-thinking approach to logistics operations and ongoing investments in transformative technologies. One standout example is ¹û¶³´«Ã½’s use of Gather AI’s advanced drone-based inventory technology at its Hillsborough, N.J. facility. This technology helps reduce manual labor and cycle counting time while increasing inventory accuracy and fulfillment speed. The system works alongside Made4net’s Synapse 3PLExpert WMS , supporting ¹û¶³´«Ã½’s mission to create a more intelligent, efficient, and responsive warehouse environment. “Third-party logistics providers are the backbone of so many supply chains, but their contributions often go unrecognized,” said Chipper Farley, President of 3PL Solutions at Made4net and newly appointed IWLA Board Member. “We launched this award to spotlight 3PL leaders who aren’t just responding to change—they’re shaping what’s next. ¹û¶³´«Ã½ Distribution’s bold and effective use of emerging technology is a perfect example of the innovation we want to celebrate.” With over 80 years of experience, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ continues to raise the bar in the 3PL industry by embracing digital transformation and championing operational excellence. “We’re honored to be recognized by Made4net and IWLA for our efforts to lead through innovation,” said Douglas Varga, Vice President of Information Technology at ¹û¶³´«Ã½ Distribution. “This award reflects the work our team has done to evaluate, adopt, and scale technology that enhances the service we deliver to our customers.” The Made4net Award for Advancing Innovation in Third-Party Logistics will be awarded annually at the IWLA Convention & Expo to spotlight the achievements of IWLA members who demonstrate a commitment to innovation and leadership in the evolving world of logistics. About ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½currently operates 25+ facilities across the United States. With over 6 million square feet of space specifically designed for warehousing, distribution, transportation and omnichannel eCommerce fulfillment, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ will scale your brand to ensure success. Learn more at www.barrettdistribution.com . About IWLA IWLA, formerly the American Warehouse Association, serves nearly 600 corporate members representing 3,000 warehousing locations. Since 1891, the organization has been the resource for warehouse logistics, advocacy, and education. For more information, visit www.IWLA.com . About Made4net Made4net is a leading global provider of best-in-class, cloud-based supply chain execution and warehouse management solutions for organizations of all sizes to improve the speed and efficiency of their supply chain. Full Release Here: https://made4net.com/made4net-presents-inaugural-award-for-advancing-innovation-in-third-party-logistics-at-2025-iwla-convention-expo/

If you think it’s too early to prep for peak season, it’s probably already too late. The reality is your competitors are already planning — and they’ll win if you don’t. At ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers , we’ve helped brands succeed through the busiest shopping seasons. The ones that perform best? They start early. Summer is your window to plan, secure resources and eliminate last-minute surprises. Why Peak Planning Starts in Q3 Orders need to ship faster, arrive on time and meet customer expectations. Missing the mark means you risk losing that customer for good. Whether shifting inventory closer to your customers, tightening up your tech, or locking in capacity before space runs out, your work in Q3 pays off when it matters most. What You Can Do Today: Start building a plan that holds up under pressure. A few moves to make now: • Secure capacity early: Lock in carrier space and warehouse availability before the rush • Confirm rate agreements: Get ahead of seasonal surcharges by finalizing pricing now • Check your visibility tools: Spot gaps in order tracking and inventory accuracy while there’s time to fix them • Align your teams: Get sales, ops and your 3PL provider on the same page with weekly check-ins and clear deadlines • Build backup plans: Expect disruptions—plan for weather, labor shortages and demand spikes • Partner with a 3PL: Work with a 3PL partner that can flex with your business and scale fast Peak Season Checklist ✓ Review last year’s data and build your forecast ✓ Adjust inventory based on expected demand ✓ Test your systems and strengthen your tech stack ✓ Set a regular planning cadence across teams ✓ Document contingency plans ✓ Confirm your 3PL is ready to support peak volume Don’t Wait for Peak to Start Acting Like It’s Peak. At ¹û¶³´«Ã½, we’re already helping brands get ready for Q4. Contact us today for a complimentary supply chain consultation.

FRANKLIN, Mass., June 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers has partnered with Two Boxes , a reverse logistics technology platform, to deliver an intelligent, more flexible returns solution for modern e-commerce brands. "¹û¶³´«Ã½'s deep e-commerce roots and innovation-first mindset make them an ideal partner," said Jack Hutchinson , Head of Growth at Two Boxes. "Their eCommerce Accelerator highlights their commitment to supporting high-growth brands. We're excited to see where this partnership goes—this is just the beginning." ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers partners with Two Boxes to streamline eCommerce returns. As client expectations increase and return processes become more complex, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ identified the need for a more streamlined process to manage inspections, re-kitting and faster resale readiness. Two Boxes was selected for its modern user experience, seamless integration with platforms like Shopify, Loop Returns and intuitive design for warehouse operators. "Two Boxes' SOP-driven approach allows us to empower more team members with real-time, step-by-step direction," said Doug Varga , VP of Information Technology at ¹û¶³´«Ã½. "It's accurate, scalable and easy to use. When we find purpose-built solutions like this, they help us deliver faster results for clients and keep our teams focused on growth." ¹û¶³´«Ã½ is designing future phases of this integration to support its long-term vision for fully optimized returns operations. Contact ¹û¶³´«Ã½ for a complimentary supply chain consultation to learn how tech-enabled logistics can simplify returns and support your growth. About Two Boxes Two Boxes is a reverse logistics technology company that empowers 3PLs and direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands to transform returns from a costly burden into a strategic advantage. Launched in 2022 and co-founded by CEO Kyle Bertin and CPO Evan Stalter, Two Boxes builds intelligent inspection workflows, digitized SOPs and real-time analytics to make return processing faster, more accurate and highly visible. About ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers  Since 1941, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ 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. ¹û¶³´«Ã½ 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, ¹û¶³´«Ã½ is big enough to do the job and still small enough to deeply care about your business. Official Release Here

Spoiler alert: Your customers don’t care how the package gets there. They just expect it to be fast, accurate and on-brand. That’s where the right 3PL comes in—handling everything from fulfillment and inventory management to returns and tech integration. So, what happens when you partner with a “forever 3PL”? Your operations run smoother, costs go down and growth gets easier across every sales channel. At ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers , we’ve supported high-performance brands for decades. Below, we break down the key features and differentiators to consider when evaluating fulfillment partners in 2025. A Smarter Approach to Omnichannel Fulfillment A successful omnichannel fulfillment strategy means your customers get a consistent experience—whether they’re shopping online, in-store or picking up curbside. For your operations team, it should mean: Faster shipping speeds Real-time inventory visibility Brand consistency across channels Top 3PLs don’t just preach omnichannel, they deliver it through strategically placed fulfillment centers , intelligent routing and scalable tech infrastructure. At ¹û¶³´«Ã½, we operate a national network of fulfillment campuses that allow for multi-node shipping, optimizing delivery speed based on where your customers are. Some providers may promise omnichannel but only operate from a single location—leading to longer delivery times or inventory challenges. Brands that are growing fast or expanding into new channels often need more than just a one-warehouse solution. Customer Support and Returns: Not All 3PLs Are Created Equal While many 3PLs offer similar fulfillment services, customer support is often the differentiator. Personalized support can make or break your experience, especially during onboarding, peak season or troubleshooting unexpected issues. Support levels vary by provider: Tier 1 providers like ¹û¶³´«Ã½ offer dedicated account managers who know your business and provide hands-on support throughout onboarding and daily operations. Tier 2 options rely on shared support models like live chat or automated help desks. Tier 3 providers offer ticket-based systems with slower response times, often with minimal brand familiarity. When it comes to returns management, here’s how it breaks down: Tier 1: Advanced returns systems that sync with your inventory and automate refund triggers. Tier 2: Branded return portals with restocking or disposal features. Tier 3: Basic returns that return to a warehouse with limited tracking or communication. Not every business needs Tier 1 support, but if your fulfillment strategy depends on speed, customization or customer satisfaction, then this should be a non-negotiable. Tech Matters: OMS and WMS Capabilities The right 3PL gives you more than storage; they give you control. A strong order management system (OMS) and warehouse management system (WMS) ensures your team can monitor inventory, manage sales channels and fulfill orders quickly and accurately. A reliable tech stack includes: Sales channel integration that captures orders from your website, social media and retail locations An OMS that routes orders and manages updates A WMS that locates products, coordinates labor and tracks every step of the fulfillment process While most 3PLs provide an OMS, not all offer a full WMS. ¹û¶³´«Ã½’s technology ecosystem includes both, giving you the visibility and precision to scale smarter. The Bottom Line Choosing the right 3PL isn’t just about cost but partnership. Your fulfillment provider should scale with you, solve for complexity and offer proactive service that keeps your operations running smoothly. At ¹û¶³´«Ã½, we’ve been doing just that for over 80+ years. Let's talk if you’re outgrowing your current 3PL or want to explore what a “forever 3PL” partnership looks like. Contact us to connect with our supply chain experts for a complimentary consultation.

If you’re a high-growth brand evaluating 3PLs, there’s one thing you deserve: real answers from the people who run the floor. I caught up with Bill Johnson , Regional VP of Operations at ¹û¶³´«Ã½ ¹û¶³´«Ã½Centers , to ask the questions every brand should consider — from automation and accuracy to culture, planning, and what really sets a great 3PL apart. Here’s what he had to say: 1. Innovation Every Brand Should Know “Our Locus Robotics system has been a game changer,” Bill shared. “We’ve seen faster pick times, quicker pack-outs, and improved labor metrics. We’re even piloting robotics for putaway now.” Why it matters: Automation isn’t just a buzzword. At ¹û¶³´«Ã½, it’s delivering measurable impact, especially during peak. 2. How to Keep Ops Running Smoothly (Especially During Peak) “It all comes down to planning,” Bill said. “We work closely with our customers on forecasting, ramp up labor early, and create a schedule that matches capacity with demand.” Why it matters: Smooth operations lead to fewer delays and better customer experiences. Your 3PL should be ready before the volume hits. 3. The Top Trait to Look for in a 3PL “Accuracy, speed, and cost control. Brands need to ask: How will this 3PL deliver orders faster, reduce errors, and save me money?” Bonus advice: Always visit the facility before signing on. 4. What Clients Are Most Surprised to Learn “Our culture. Visitors are blown away by how invested our employees are. They know our clients’ brands and care deeply about the work.” Why it matters: Culture drives performance. It shows up in service, accuracy and communication. 5. Going Live in 30 Days? It’s Possible. “We had a client who needed to launch fast. From signed contract to first order out was 30 days — full integration, setup, the works. We made it happen.” Why it matters: Your 3PL should move at the speed of your business. 6. Operational Excellence, Defined “It’s doing things right the first time. From onboarding to pick/pack/ship — and then continuously improving to lower costs.” 7. Supply Chain Trends to Watch “There’s a lot of noise out there. Look for solutions tailored to your business, not just the flashiest tech. And ask for proven results.” 8. Balancing Speed and Quality “It’s not about rushing — it’s about setting the right pace. You need fast fulfillment and accuracy. One without the other won’t cut it.” 9. What Sets ¹û¶³´«Ã½ Apart? “Our people. They’re embedded in the business, care about the customers and drive our success.” Final Thought from Bill: “Data drives everything. From setup to automation — we make informed decisions based on real numbers, not guesses.” Are you ready for a partner who treats your brand like their own? Contact us to schedule a complimentary supply chain consultation with our experts today.