About the Study
The 2026 30th Annual Third-Party Logistics Study employed a variety of research streams to provide an objective look into the 3PL industry, from both a user or purchaser of services (shipper) perspective and a provider perspective. Researchers also sought insights from leading organizations that don't currently use external services from a 3PL provider. These are noted in the study as non-users.
The study's goal is to investigate leading trends and uncover how shippers and 3PLs can better collaborate to improve service and increase value. It examines growth within 3PL as a whole and specific sub-segments of the industry. It also looks at overall growth and development, what shippers outsource and what 3PLs offer, why shippers outsource to 3PLs and the value they gain from those relationships. Additionally, researchers investigate trends and issues expected to alter the future state of logistics outsourcing.
When developing the research plan, the study team established topics of interest, developed the survey instrument, conducted the research, analyzed the results, compiled this report, and presented and shared the findings.
As part of this year's research, the team engaged shippers, 3PLs and 4PLs with a worldwide email survey, as well as focused interviews and virtual discussions with industry leaders.
The Annual Third-Party Logistics Study serves as a resource for shippers, 3PLs and others seeking to understand and become familiar with the industry.
Contributions from industry representatives, supporting organizations and sponsor firms are vital to the study and have sustained the report for the past 30 years. Shippers and 3PLs generously participated in the surveys and interviews needed to produce this year's study, and the 30th Annual Third-Party Logistics Study is dedicated to those who made it possible. Included are Penn State's Center for Supply Chain Research®, the University of Tennessee's Global Supply Chain Institute and the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals.
The study has become a widely anticipated and referenced index on the state of the 3PL industry.
Since its founding by Dr. C. John Langley, the report has focused on people, processes and technology, relationship management and the end-to-end supply chain. Through the lens of the shipper-3PL relationship, the results of the Annual Third-Party Logistics Study provide valuable perspectives and insight into the broader topic of supply chain management.