Few decisions are more critical when protecting your brand and product integrity than selecting the right third party logistics partner, especially in the cold chain. Whether you’re a food manufacturer, retailer, or e-commerce brand, your logistics partner is crucial in how efficiently and safely your products move from point A to point B.
Not all 3PLs are created equal. So, what should you look for when evaluating a logistics provider? At RLS Logistics, we’ve worked alongside hundreds of food and beverage companies and understand what it takes to build lasting, productive partnerships. Here are five key strategies to help guide your decision.
Cold Chain Expertise is Non-Negotiable
The temperature controlled supply chain is complex and high stakes. Your 3PL partner should not only understand the science behind cold storage and transportation but also be able to prove it with industry certifications such as BRCGS. Look for a provider with a strong background in handling perishable goods, frozen foods, and regulatory compliance.
At RLS Logistics, cold chain is our core focus. We’ve been in the industry for over 57 years and know the ins and outs of keeping your products safe and transporting them efficiently.
Integrated Services Save Time and Headaches
Managing separate vendors for warehousing, transportation, and fulfillment can lead to fragmented communication and avoidable delays. Choosing a 3PL that offers integrated cold storage and transportation solutions can improve visibility, streamline operations, and reduce costs.
We offer end to end cold chain services, including frozen and refrigerated warehousing, nationwide transportation, and D2C e-commerce fulfillment, so you can simplify your operations and focus on growth.
Data Transparency and Technology Matter
Visibility is power. Your 3PL should offer real time tracking, inventory management tools, and reporting dashboards that give you full control over your supply chain. Ask potential partners about their technology stack and how they deliver insights that help you make informed decisions.
Our customer portal anello, provides complete shipment visibility, inventory reports, and quoting tools so our customers always have the information they need at their fingertips.
Location, Location, Location
Strategic warehouse placement can significantly affect transit times and shipping costs. If your products need to reach customers quickly, especially with the recent rise of e-commerce and D2C demand, look for a provider with facilities close to major population centers.
With cold storage warehouses strategically located in the Northeast and the western United States, RLS Logistics reaches over 95% of U.S. homes within two days, ideal for direct to consumer fulfillment.
Customer Service That Feels Like a True Partnership
The best logistics partnerships are built on trust and communication. Your 3PL should feel like an extension of your team, with dedicated account managers, effective communication, and a culture of service that aligns with your company values. The right logistics partner should offer more than services; they should provide support that scales with you and a commitment to continuous improvement.
At RLS, we pride ourselves on delivering proactive, not reactive, customer service. Through our Voice of the Customer program and regular client surveys, we gather direct feedback to understand what’s working and where we can improve. This feedback loop helps us evolve with your needs, not just meet them.
Need answers after hours? No problem. Our dedicated 24/7 support team is always available to assist, troubleshoot challenges, and ensure your supply chain keeps moving day or night.
Choosing the right 3PL partner is more than just finding a vendor; it’s about finding a team invested in your business as much as you are. As the demands of the cold chain continue to evolve, working with a flexible, experienced, and integrated provider can give you the competitive edge you need. Contact our team of Cold Chain Experts to start transforming your supply chain today.
ABOUT RLS LOGISTICS: Headquartered in Glassboro, NJ, RLS Logistics is a family-owned, third-party logistics provider specializing in value-added cold chain solutions, including LTL and FTL transportation, cold storage warehousing, and direct-to-consumer fulfillment. Founded in 1968, the company has been owned and managed by the Leo family for over 55 years and has grown into a leading integrated cold chain 3PL.
