Supply chain roles & networks · Core
Third-party logistics provider
Also called: 3PL
ELI5
An external provider performing logistics activities such as warehousing or transport.
Used in conversation
“What breaks upstream or downstream if third-party logistics provider changes?”
Pitch context
You will see “Third-party logistics provider” in operating plans, procurement packs, supplier reviews and supply-chain reports when the discussion reaches supply chain roles & networks.
Why it matters: In supply chain roles & networks, the definition can change ownership, capacity, process, cost or safety decisions.
Sources & evidence · 3
Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Productivity programmeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- UK Government — Groceries Supply Code of PracticeDirect source · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Acquisition.gov — Federal Acquisition Regulation Part 15 — Contracting by NegotiationSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16