One of the world’s largest contract logistics providers, managing over $9 billion in annual revenue, faced a critical turning point in its carrier management strategy.

With its UK division representing 40% of its global operation, the third-party logistics (3PL) identified a significant opportunity: while its customers spent hundreds of millions annually on carrier contracts, only a small percentage flowed through its managed services.

Challenge

The logistics provider was at a crossroads with its existing carrier management system. Despite having a functional core platform, its team grappled with inflexible additional modules and inadequate reporting capabilities, crucial elements for a business of its scale.

Its customers’ direct carrier integrations were becoming increasingly problematic, requiring substantial resources to maintain and introducing operational risks, particularly in an increasingly volatile market.

As a 3PL, it needed a solution that could consistently deliver results, work cost-effectively, and operate with minimal disruption to both its customers and operations. The challenge was finding a partner who understood the unique complexities of the 3PL’s business model.

Solution

Working closely with the 3PL, Metapack developed a comprehensive transformation programme that went beyond traditional carrier management. “Rather than try to squeeze us into a convenient box, the team actively listened to our needs as a 3PL customer and came to the party with solutions” explains the Head of Carrier Management.

The solution included:

  • A bespoke commercial framework designed explicitly for 3PL operations.
  • A unified carrier management platform that could be easily replicated and scaled globally.
  • Streamlined integration methodology for rapid deployment.
  • High-performance APIs supporting automated warehouse operations.
  • Dedicated professional services support.
  • A comprehensive sales enablement programme.

“This partnership has seen Metapack develop a completely new commercial and operational process to support the needs and complexities of a 3PL” notes the customer.

“Strong focus, dedicated teams and a compelling commercial proposition have all served to stimulate and incentivise growth in the use of the Metapack platform.”

Results

The transformation delivered significant impact over a 30-month period:

  • Platform stability improved significantly, enabling rapid adaptation to industry-wide challenges.
  • Carrier service implementation speed increased by 300%.
  • 13 new customer wins.
  • Annual parcel volumes are projected to reach over 20 million, with average volume growth at 69% YoY.
  • Reduced project implementation times and associated costs.
  • Higher conversion rates on new business proposals.
  • Enhanced visibility into customer carrier operations.

“The Metapack solution works 100% of the time, giving complete confidence and peace of mind” states the customer.

“The team at Metapack have worked alongside us to build a 3PL proposition which works for both parties. Always happy to engage, they regularly join us in discussions directly with our customer base, or alongside us when bidding for new business.”

Most importantly, the partnership continues to evolve. As the customer explains: “Most critically, for a 3PL, Metapack haven’t rested on their laurels and the proposition continues to develop with the changing needs of our business and customer base.”

“Most critically, for a 3PL, Metapack haven’t rested on their laurels and the proposition continues to develop with the changing needs of our business and customer base.”