Collaboration as a Strategy: How 3PLs Can Succeed Together

In Mexico, the future of third-party logistics providers (3PLs) is not solely about competing for every contract, but rather about collaborating intelligently. The synergies between companies in the sector not only strengthen each individual organization but also elevate the level of the national logistics ecosystem, enabling more robust, sustainable, and market-adapted solutions.

Modern logistics demands agility, scalability, and resilience. In this context, collaboration among 3PLs emerges as a key strategy to address common challenges, from route saturation and the need for advanced infrastructure to digitization and the growing demand for fast deliveries.

The logistics of the future will be collaborative. And in Mexico, we are already seeing the first steps. But a fundamental question arises:

What can 3PLs collaborate on?

1. Geographic Complementarity

A clear example is when a 3PL with a strong presence in the northern part of the country partners with another that covers central or southern regions. This allows them to offer integrated nationwide services without investing in new facilities.

Key benefits:

• National coverage with less investment.

• Faster delivery times.

• Better response to logistical disruptions (such as road closures or extreme weather).

This type of alliance is especially relevant in a large and diverse country like Mexico, where geographical and logistical conditions vary significantly from one region to another.

2. Integration of Specialized Services

Not all logistics companies have the same capabilities. Some excel in land transportation, others in cross-docking, and some specialize in handling hazardous or regulated goods.

Key synergy: Sharing clients and cross-referencing services to offer comprehensive service packages.

Practical example: A company specialized in cross-docking can collaborate with another expert in last-mile delivery, combining strengths to provide an end-to-end turnkey solution.

This collaboration enables 3PLs to position themselves as true strategic partners capable of addressing multiple links in the supply chain.

3. Shared Use of Infrastructure

Distribution centers, fleets, and technological systems can be shared through strategic partnerships or shared-use contracts. This reduces fixed costs and improves asset utilization.

Possible scenarios:

• Sharing warehouses in strategic locations (for example, near ports or airports).

• Shared fleet usage on similar routes to optimize loads and reduce empty runs.

• Exchange of space in logistics terminals during peak seasons.

This is particularly useful for small and medium-sized logistics companies looking to scale without major initial investments.

4. Shared Technology Platforms

Many small and midsized 3PLs lack advanced logistics management systems (TMS, WMS, OMS). However, this should not limit their competitive capacity.

Collaborative solution: Agreements to access the same digital platform under shared SaaS models or technology cooperatives.

Advantages:

• Real-time visibility of inventory and shipments.

• Greater traceability and quality control.

• Ability to compete with large international players from an agile and flexible position.

Technology ceases to be a barrier when it is shared intelligently.

5. Collaboration in Last-Mile Capabilities

The growth of e-commerce has transformed customer expectations: faster, more accurate, and personalized deliveries are now the norm.

New reality: 3PLs can create collaborative networks where different companies cover various urban areas with their own vehicles and staff, but under a unified monitoring and control system.

Result: Reduced delivery times, lower cost per transported unit, and improved final customer experience.

This model allows 3PLs to serve complex cities like Mexico City, Monterrey, or Guadalajara more efficiently and scalably.

Recommendations 

For these collaborations to succeed, strategic planning and an open mindset are essential. Here are some key recommendations:

• Identify strategic partners: Look for companies with similar values and complementary capabilities. It’s not just any partner, it must be the right one.

• Define clear agreements: Establish detailed contracts outlining roles, responsibilities, benefit sharing, and conflict resolution mechanisms.

• Invest in technological interoperability: Compatible platforms between partners are essential to ensure smooth information flow and coordinated operations.

• Establish common metrics: Define aligned KPIs to measure the success of the collaboration and make timely adjustments.

• Promote a culture of collaboration: Shift from a mindset of total competition to a win-win vision. This requires leadership, trust, and constant communication.

Collaboration among 3PLs is not only possible, it is necessary to face the logistical challenges of the 21st century. In Mexico, where logistics plays a crucial role in attracting foreign investment and promoting regional economic development, working as a network can be the difference between merely surviving and truly thriving.

Synergies allow logistics providers to:

• Expand their geographic reach,

• Diversify their services,

• Reduce operational costs,

• Improve the customer experience,

• And prepare for future challenges such as nearshoring, automation, and sustainability.

Collaborative logistics benefits not only the involved companies but also the national productive sector — and ultimately, society as a whole.