Third-party logistics: partners for automated and scalable warehouses

In the modern logistics landscape, reliability and flexibility in managing shipments and warehouse operations have become essential. Third Party Logistics (3PL) services are now a strategic solution for companies seeking to outsource and optimise their logistics activities by relying on specialised partners.

But what exactly are 3PLs? They are external logistics operators who manage all activities related to warehousing, transport, distribution and order management in an integrated manner. This allows companies to focus on their core business, entrusting the complexity of logistics operations to experts.

Why choose a 3PL provider?

A Third Party Logistics Provider offers comprehensive solutions for warehouse management, transport, distribution and reverse logistics. This approach allows companies to focus on their core business, improving operational efficiency, delivery times and cost control.

• Cost reduction: Relying on a 3PL partner allows you to limit investments in infrastructure and internal resources, transforming fixed costs into variable expenses. This means that companies no longer have to worry about purchasing or directly managing warehouses, transport vehicles or dedicated personnel, thus reducing financial risk. The 3PL model allows you to optimise resources based on actual demand, improving overall economic management.

• Scalability: The services offered by 3PLs guarantee great flexibility, allowing logistics operations to be adapted to seasonal peaks and changes in demand. Without having to make significant structural investments, companies can quickly increase or reduce their operational capacity, effectively dealing with unexpected fluctuations or periods of high demand. This scalability ensures that high service standards are maintained without incurring excessive fixed costs.

• Operational efficiency: 3PL providers constantly invest in advanced technologies such as warehouse management systems (WMS) and execution systems (WES), automation and artificial intelligence to optimise every stage of logistics operations. This allows for precise, real-time control of inventory, improved shipment planning and fewer errors. In addition, the experience of industry professionals ensures calibrated processes and tailor-made solutions for every specific need.

Automation and technology at the service of 3PL

Modern 3PL providers use advanced technologies such as automated warehouse systems, autonomous mobile robots, WMS software and scalable solutions to handle seasonal peaks, order customisations and multi-channel requests.

The strategic value of robot rental in logistics management

To keep pace with the market, warehouse automation is now essential. However, purchasing robots outright often involves high costs that can be a barrier for many companies. In this scenario, robot rental emerges as an advantageous solution, allowing companies to adopt advanced technologies without having to incur significant initial expenses.

One of the main advantages of renting is operational flexibility: companies can easily adjust the number of robots according to seasonal needs or changes in demand, without having to commit capital to purchasing machinery. This approach allows you to adapt quickly to market changes while maintaining control over costs.

Furthermore, leasing contributes to a significant reduction in capital expenditure (CAPEX), converting outlays into predictable and more easily manageable operating costs, thereby lowering the financial risk associated with fixed investments.

Another benefit is constant access to the most innovative technologies. Robot suppliers regularly update their equipment, preventing companies from having to replace obsolete machinery and thus ensuring that they always have high-performance tools that are in step with the times.

Finally, leasing also offers tax advantages thanks to the possibility of deducting costs and contractual flexibility, which allows you to customise the duration and conditions of the lease according to the specific needs of the company.

DHL Supply Chain case study: inaugurates advanced automation at the Health Logistics Campus in Livraga, in partnership with Exotec, integrated by ERREVI AUTOMATION.

DHL Supply Chain Italia has inaugurated a new automation system at the DHL Health Logistics Campus in Livraga (Lodi), marking a historic milestone for Italian pharmaceutical logistics. The project, carried out with a strategic investment of over €14 million, introduces the first highly automated warehouse for the Life Sciences & Healthcare (LSH) sector in Italy.

The heart of the new automation system is Exotec’s Skypod Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS), located in a dedicated area of over 7,000 m². A total of 138 ‘good-to-person’ robots ensure the preparation and shipment of orders to pharmacies, hospitals and wholesalers, with a capacity of up to 10,000 orders per day. The system reduces errors, optimises space, improves speed and flexibility based on seasonality, and adapts to changes in demand. This is a specialised 3PL logistics model, where DHL acts as a strategic partner for pharmaceutical companies, ensuring quality, efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Conclusions

Choosing a 3PL provider that integrates automation and logistics know-how is now a strategic lever for growth. Errevi Automation solutions enable third-party logistics providers to optimise operations with scalable, robotic and connected systems. This is a real opportunity for companies that want to increase productivity and flexibility without having to make heavy initial investments.

Relying on partners with expertise in logistics automation means choosing today the solutions that will make a difference tomorrow: smarter warehouses, faster processes, greater control over costs.

With Errevi Automation, every project starts with your needs: we analyse, design and integrate the most suitable technology to make your logistics a real competitive advantage.