The intention of the research is to identify the most effective ways of choosing
a third party logistics (TPL) provider. Logistics management consists of
three core functions: transportation management, inventory management,
and value added services. Third party logistics is defined as when a third
party is brought in to help manage these functions. A TPL provider is an independent
economic entity that creates value for its client. A trucking company,
a warehouse operator, and a contract manufacturer can all be
considered third parties. The TPL industry is constantly changing, although
its existence is nothing new. The range of value propositions they offer today
has changed dramatically in recent years. Global industry consolidation,
technology integration, industry specialisation, and industry alliance
networks have driven this change.