What is a 3PL? Benefits, Services, and Why Amazon Sellers Use Them

As the world of e-commerce grows at lightning speed, so does the complexity of managing logistics. From warehousing stock to ensuring products arrive at customers’ doors in perfect condition, the behind-the-scenes work can quickly overwhelm even the most organised online seller. That’s why many businesses turn to third-party logistics (3PL) providers for support.

But what is a 3PL, and how does it fit into the Amazon FBA ecosystem? If you’re selling on Amazon UK, understanding the role of 3PLs is vital to scaling your business, avoiding costly mistakes, and keeping customers happy.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about 3PLs, including how they work, the benefits for Amazon FBA sellers, common pitfalls to avoid, and how Fast Pack FBA can help you take the hassle out of logistics.

What is a 3PL?

A third-party logistics (3PL) provider is a company that manages outsourced logistics services on behalf of e-commerce businesses. Instead of handling warehousing, inventory control, packaging, and shipping yourself, you can partner with aP 3L to manage these critical functions.

Put simply: while you focus on product development, marketing, and customer service, your 3PL takes care of the operations that get your stock from supplier to buyer.

Typical 3PL services include:

• Warehousing – safe and secure storage of your products.

• Inventory management – real-time tracking to ensure you don’t oversell or run out of stock.

• Order fulfilment – picking, packing, and shipping orders to customers.

• Amazon FBA prep – ensuring goods meet Amazon’s strict requirements before being sent to fulfilment centres.

• Returns handling – managing customer returns efficiently.

  
  

At Fast Pack FBA, we specialise in these services for Amazon sellers, with a focus on ensuring compliance with Amazon FBA rules while keeping costs efficient.

How Does a 3PL Work with Amazon FBA?

Amazon’s Fulfilment by Amazon (FBA) programme is one of the most powerful tools for sellers. By storing stock in Amazon warehouses, you gain access to Prime shipping, Amazon’s customer service, and their vast distribution network.

However, Amazon enforces strict rules around packaging, labelling, and product preparation. If your inventory doesn’t meet these standards, Amazon may reject or delay shipments—costing you both time and money.

This is where a 3PL partner steps in. Here’s how the process works:

1. Receiving Inventory – Your supplier ships goods directly to your 3PL.

2. Product Inspection – The 3PL checks items for damage, accuracy, and compliance.

3. FBA Prep Services – This includes barcoding (FNSKU labels), poly-bagging, bundling, or shrink-wrapping to Amazon’s requirements.

4. Shipping to Amazon – The 3PL creates compliant shipments and arranges delivery to Amazon fulfilment centres.

5. Amazon Takes Over – Once the stock is at Amazon, they handle picking, packing, shipping, and customer service.

   
   

By partnering with a 3PL like Fast Pack FBA, you can minimise rejection risks and focus on scaling your business with confidence.

Why Use a 3PL for Amazon FBA?

For many sellers, the biggest question isn’t just what is a 3PL, but why should I use one at all? Here are some key benefits:

1. Compliance with Amazon Requirements

Amazon has detailed prep and packaging rules, from FNSKU labels to suffocation warning stickers. Missing even one step can result in rejected stock. A 3PL ensures full compliance, saving you the headache of costly mistakes.

2. Time Savings

Manually prepping products takes hours, if not days. Outsourcing to a 3PL frees your time to focus on finding new products, improving listings, or marketing.

3. Scalability

As your business grows, so does the complexity of logistics. A 3PL can easily scale up services, from handling a few cartons to managing full container loads.

4. Cost-Efficient Shipping

Most 3PLs, including Fast Pack FBA, have shipping partnerships that unlock discounted rates. For Amazon sellers sending large volumes, this can mean significant savings.

5. Inventory Accuracy

3PLs use advanced tracking systems, helping you avoid overselling and stockouts. You’ll know exactly how much inventory is available and where it’s located.

Amazon FBA Prep Services Explained

One of the most valuable offerings of a 3PL is Amazon FBA prep services. Here’s what this involves:

• Product Labelling – Applying Amazon-compliant FNSKU barcodes to every unit.

• Poly Bagging & Shrink Wrapping – Protecting items, particularly those with multiple components, liquids, or textiles.

• Bundling/Kitting – Assembling product bundles for unique Amazon listings.

• Quality Control – Checking that all products are undamaged, functional, and ready for sale.

• Box Labelling – Ensuring cartons have the correct Amazon shipping labels.

  
  

With these services, you avoid the risk of stock rejection at the fulfilment centre and guarantee a smoother selling process.

How to Choose the Right 3PL for Amazon FBA

Not all 3PL providers are created equal. Choosing the right partner can make or break your FBA business. Here’s what to look for:

1. Amazon FBA Expertise

Always choose a 3PL with proven experience in prepping stock for Amazon. Fast Pack FBA specialises in FBA shipments, ensuring every unit meets Amazon’s standards.

2. Technology Integration

A good 3PL should integrate with platforms like Amazon Seller Central, Shopify, and other e-commerce systems for seamless order management.

3. Strategic Location

Location matters. A 3PL with warehouses near Amazon’s UK fulfilment centres reduces shipping times and costs.

4. Transparent Pricing

Hidden charges are a common pitfall. Clarify all fees upfront—storage, handling, shipping—before signing any contracts.

5. Customer Support

Fast, reliable communication is essential. If something goes wrong, you need quick answers and solutions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with 3PLs

Even experienced sellers make missteps when using a 3PL. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Not Understanding Amazon’s Rules – Don’t assume your 3PL will automatically know everything. Stay informed on Seller Central updates.

• Overlooking Fees – Low upfront rates can be misleading. Always check for hidden storage or handling charges.

• Poor Communication – Keep an open line with your 3PL about stock levels, timelines, and shipment changes.

  
  

FAQs: What is a 3PL for Amazon Sellers?

Q: Can I use a 3PL and still do FBA?Yes. A 3PL prepares and ships your stock to Amazon. Once it arrives at Amazon’s fulfilment centres, Amazon takes over order fulfilment.

Q: Is a 3PL necessary for beginners?Not always. Small sellers may manage prep themselves. But once volume increases, a 3PL becomes essential for saving time and staying compliant.

Q: Can a 3PL store my products long-term?Yes. Many 3PLs offer both short-term and long-term storage solutions.

Q: How does a 3PL differ from FBM (Fulfilled by Merchant)?With FBM, you ship directly to customers. With FBA, Amazon handles fulfilment—but a 3PL ensures your stock is properly prepped before reaching Amazon.

The UK E-Commerce Landscape and 3PLs

The UK is one of Amazon’s largest marketplaces outside the US. With millions of Prime members expecting fast, reliable deliveries, sellers can’t afford to cut corners on logistics.

Brexit has also added layers of complexity to international trade, customs declarations, and VAT. Many UK sellers now rely on 3PLs not just for prep, but also for navigating cross-border shipping. At Fast Pack FBA, we help clients manage these challenges with tailored solutions that keep them compliant and competitive.

Conclusion: Why Partner with Fast Pack FBA for Your 3PL Needs

So, what is a 3PL? In essence, it’s your logistics partner—handling storage, prep, and shipping so you can focus on growing your Amazon business.

By working with Fast Pack FBA, you gain:

• Amazon FBA compliance expertise.

• Scalable logistics support as your business grows.

• Transparent, cost-effective pricing.

• A UK-based partner who understands both the local and international e-commerce landscape.

If you’re ready to simplify your logistics, avoid costly mistakes, and take your Amazon FBA business to the next level, get in touch with Fast Pack FBA today.