3PLs and Fulfillment Infrastructure

What is a 3PL?

A Third-Party Logistics provider (3PL) stores your inventory in their warehouse and fulfills orders on your behalf. Unlike Amazon FBA, a 3PL works for all your non-Amazon channels and gives you control over packaging, inserts, and brand experience.

When to Move to a 3PL

The trigger points: (1) You're fulfilling 50+ orders/day. (2) You're opening a third store. (3) You need custom packaging or kitting. (4) Storage costs are eating your margin.

Top 3PL Options for MEO Operators

• ShipBob — Popular, tech-forward, integrates with Shopify/WooCommerce/Etsy
• Deliverr (Flexport) — Fast 2-day fulfillment network, great for Walmart marketplace
• Red Stag Fulfillment — Best for heavy/oversized products
• Whiplash — Strong DTC brand focus, excellent for Shopify stores

The Dual-Warehouse Model

Advanced MEO operators split inventory between Amazon FBA warehouses AND a 3PL. This gives them Amazon Prime badge for Amazon sales and controlled brand experience for DTC channels.