A 3PL, or third-party logistics, is an outsourced business that takes care of a companys supply chain and logistics operations. It is a service provider that either arranges or handles a variety of supply chain functions for a business, such as brokering, shipping, storing, or packing a companys freight, as well as supply chain strategy and access to technology. A 3PL provider can store inventory, pick, pack, and ship products, and provide a vital link between manufacturing operations and end customers. The 3PL business model is the most common type of outsourced logistics company. There are different types of 3PL providers that focus on different areas of supply chain operations, such as standard 3PL providers, service developers, and customer developers. The core services of a 3PL can include truckload brokerage, less-than-truckload (LTL) shipping, intermodal shipping, and international shipping. 3PLs help businesses navigate the latest trends and regulatory changes, and they bring value to their customers through their industry expertise.