3 Signs It’s Time to Switch 3PL Providers

Is Your 3PL Holding You Back?

A reliable third-party logistics provider should help your business grow—not slow it down. But if your fulfillment partner is missing deadlines, providing poor visibility, or lacking support, it might be time to move on. Here are three signs that switching 3PLs isn’t just a good idea—it’s necessary.

1. Missed Deadlines Are a Clear Sign to Switch 3PL Providers

If customers are complaining about late deliveries, missing tracking numbers, or incorrect shipments, that’s a major red flag. Delays and errors erode trust, increase returns, and damage your brand reputation—especially in competitive ecommerce markets where fast, accurate delivery is expected.

Look out for:

Frequent missed same-day shipping cutoffs


Inconsistent order tracking updates


Inability to meet marketplace or retail SLA requirements

2. Outdated Systems? It Might Be Time to Switch Your 3PL

Outdated systems create bottlenecks. If your current provider can’t offer real-time visibility, automated tracking, or robust inventory management, you’re operating at a disadvantage. Modern fulfillment requires a WMS that integrates with your sales channels and provides detailed reporting to keep your operations running smoothly.

You might be stuck if your 3PL:

Still relies on manual tracking and spreadsheets


Doesn’t support integrations with your ecommerce platforms or ERPs


Offers limited visibility into order status or stock levels

Related: Why Inventory Accuracy Is Critical for E-Commerce Fulfillment

3. There’s No Flexibility or Support for Your Growth

Your business is evolving—your 3PL should be able to keep up. Whether you're expanding into retail, shipping oversized products, or launching new SKUs, your fulfillment partner needs to support your roadmap. If you’re stuck with one-size-fits-all solutions, it’s time to look elsewhere.

Signs of poor scalability:

No support for custom projects or retail compliance


High minimums or inflexible pricing


Lack of proactive support or communication from your account team

How 3PL Center Makes Switching Easy

At 3PL Center, we’ve helped hundreds of businesses transition from underperforming 3PLs. We know switching can feel overwhelming—but with our experienced team, the process is fast, smooth, and built to set you up for long-term success.

Here’s what you can expect when you switch to 3PL Center:

Onboarding in days, not weeks – We help you move quickly so there’s no disruption to your fulfillment.


Nationwide warehousing – Strategically located warehouses help reduce shipping zones and speed up delivery.


Advanced WMS – Get real-time visibility, box optimization, rate shopping, and detailed reporting.


Retail-ready and ecommerce fulfillment – We support B2B, DTC, Amazon, Walmart, and more.


Dedicated support – A responsive account team that actually picks up the phone.

Want to see exactly what switching looks like? Read our guide: 10 Steps to Switching 3PL Providers

Make the Smart Move—Switch to a 3PL That Supports Your Growth

If your current provider is causing more problems than they’re solving, it’s time to switch your 3pl partner. 3PL Center offers the tools, support, and speed your business needs to thrive.

Ready to upgrade your fulfillment? Contact us today to see how easy it is to make the switch.