The 29th Annual Third-Party Logistics Study, powered by NTT DATA, Penske and Penn State University, investigates leading trends to uncover how shippers and third-party logistics providers (3PLs) can better collaborate to improve service and increase value.
This year’s 2025 study dives deeper into:
- Change management
- AI in supply chain
- Direct-to-customer (D2C)
Current State of the 3PL Market
The 2025 Third-Party Logistics Study shows the continuation of positive, strategic relationships between shippers and third-party logistics providers as they work together to increase efficiency and improve performance. Expectations and best practices within the supply chain continue to evolve as shippers and 3PLs adapt to changing market conditions and customer demands.
The supply chain continues to face several challenges, including geopolitical unrests, economic shifts and supply chain delays, which could affect relationships between shippers and 3PLs, but our study reveals that almost 90% of shippers say 3PLs relationships are successful. And 94% of 3PLs agree.
These relationships are delivering results. Most shippers report that 3PLs contribute to improved customer service. Next to that 3PLs provide new and innovative ways to improve logistics effectiveness and reduce overall supply chain costs.
The ongoing demands for reliable service, prioritization of supply chain resiliency and the need for technology-based solutions are likely contributing to shippers’ use of 3PLs. The percentage of shippers reporting they increased their use of outsourced logistics services rose to 87% — a 25% increase compared to the previous year.
Change Management in Shipper and 3PL Relationships
The ability to manage change has become an essential part of improving supply chain operations. It helps organizations support collaboration, deploy new technology, and adapt to internal and external market pressures. Shippers (61%) and 3PLs (73%) say the need for supply chain change management is either critical or significant. Customer demands, economic factors and technological advancements are among the top drivers of change in shippers’ and 3PLs’ operations. The most-identified area in need of change is supply chain visibility. Technology, planning and relationships also rank highly. A structured change management process can reduce resistance to change, improve communication and increase the likelihood of success.
Artificial Intelligence in the Supply Chain
Technology is transforming supply chains, and artificial intelligence is helping shippers and 3PLs enhance efficiency, accuracy, and resilience. Both groups are aligned on their views of AI as a tool that can automate data analysis, to identify patterns, or solve problems as well as and be a tool to for automating repetitive, mundane tasks. Shippers and 3PLs agree that the greatest return on investment will come from service level improvements, and as well as data accuracy.
The majority of shippers say 3PLs’ use of AI would influence their choice of a 3PL partner and that they would be likely to switch 3PL providers based on their AI capabilities. As demand for AI-based solutions increases, 3PL offerings will evolve, however this year’s survey showed that the AI implementations shippers demand aren’t necessarily aligned with 3PLs offerings. For example, 33% of shippers say they are seeking implementations related to supply planning and demand forecasting, while 19% of 3PLs reported plans considering implementations in this area.
The Importance of the Direct-to-Consumer Experience
Direct-to-consumer (D2C) sales have experienced significant growth as manufacturers and retailers focus on connecting directly with consumers. The shift is affecting the supply chain as shippers and their logistics providers prioritize speed, flexibility and resiliency. Speed has become a top priority. Although speed is important, costs are an issue, and 30% of shippers and 3PLs report they are not willing to absorb any costs related to shipping speeds.
About half of shippers (47%) say their highest priority within the D2C customer promise is a general brand commitment to reduce environmental impact in the supply chain. Given the importance of speed, it is not surprising that both groups cite it as one of the most likely differentiators.
“While this year’s study reveals successful relationships, a renewed focus on change management and increased outsource spending, we still face challenges. So, building deeper partnerships, investing in digital and AI capabilities will be critical for success and help organizations fulfil the consumer promise.” Tim Brindley, Vice President, Supply Chain Consulting, NTT DATA.
Get the report now > 2025 Third-Party Logistics Study | NTT DATA
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