The 2025 Annual Third-Party Logistics Study reports the results of a survey measuring the satisfaction of shipper and 3PL relationships. This year, the study also explored the level of importance shippers and 3PLs place on change management, artificial intelligence, the direct-to-consumer experience and other contemporary issues in supply chain management.
Change Management in Shipper-3PL Relationships
The leading drivers of change for shippers and 3PLs include customer demands, economic factors and advancements in technology. Factors following close behind include supplier considerations, societal shifts and labor constraints.
Among shippers:
Respondents also reported that structured change instills a sense of empowerment in people, providing an opportunity for involvement with others, alignment with leadership and support to drive success.
Artificial Intelligence in the Supply Chain
The study found that 39% of shippers and 36% of 3PLs surveyed agree that automation is a tool to eliminate mundane and repetitive tasks, freeing up time. Additionally, 46% of both respondent groups felt automation of data analysis identifies patterns and solves problems. However, it’s clear both agree that artificial intelligence does not replace human intuition in business process decision-making.
3PLs with AI capabilities will have a competitive advantage, with shippers reporting that they are very likely (13%), likely (29%) or somewhat likely (32%) to switch 3PL providers based on their AI capabilities.
The Direct-to-Consumer Experience
How consumers purchase goods has evolved in recent years, shifting demand to online platforms where speed is the most critical factor. Half of shippers and 3PLs reported that their customers expect orders to arrive in less than two days, and one-fourth of each group reported their customers expect orders to arrive in two to three days.
Even though speed is the primary concern for customers, 30% of shippers and 3PLs stated they are not willing to absorb additional costs associated with expedited shipping.
Contemporary Issues in Supply Chain Management
This year’s study focused on a number of critical issues that impact shippers and 3PLs in today’s supply chain, such as nearshoring and trends in real estate labor.
To view the full study sponsored by NTT Data and Penske Logistics, download it free of charge at www.3PLStudy.com where you can access past publications as well.