The first step in reducing 3PL costs is understanding what you are actually paying for. Request an itemized invoice breakdown by fee type — receiving, prep, storage, outbound, special handling. Identify the three largest cost drivers.
Storage fees are often the most controllable cost. Inventory that sits at a 3PL beyond the working window accumulates storage charges. Review velocity by SKU and pull slow-moving inventory back to cheaper storage before it accumulates significant charges.
Volume consolidation reduces per-unit rates. If you are splitting inventory between multiple 3PLs, consolidating to one location often unlocks lower per-unit pricing through volume breaks.
Renegotiate rates annually. 3PL pricing is negotiable, especially as your volume grows. If you have increased volume by 30% in the past year, you have a strong case for a rate reduction.