The best shipping software for 3PLs: Which solution should you choose for better carrier management?

Did you know that 80% of supply chain leaders believe it’s essential to provide clients with real-time updates on inventory, orders, and shipments?

If you run a 3PL business, you know how challenging shipping management can be. Managing multiple carriers, generating shipping labels, orchestrating tracking systems, and handling international processes for cross-border ecommerce operations all add complexity. All of this makes the day-to-day work of a 3PL provider more difficult. If you want to reduce these kinds of problems, you should integrate shipping software specialized in 3PL operations.

In this guide, you will see some of the best shipping software solutions for 3PLs and the recommendations you can use to improve your multi-carrier system.

Best shipping software for 3PL providers in 2026

What is 3PL software for shipping and carrier integrations?

3PL shipping and carrier integration software is an operational system that connects your warehouse to the carrier network and automates how parcels move once they leave your facility.

If you run a 3PL, this is the system that determines which carrier is used, how labels are generated, how tracking is communicated, and how shipping rules are applied for each client you manage.

How is 3PL shipping system different from a WMS?

A WMS for 3PLs manages what happens inside the warehouse. It controls inventory, storage, picking, and internal workflows to keep operations efficient.

A 3PL shipping and carriar management software oversees the complete customer logistics journey, covering shipping automation, order tracking and branded notifications for multiple clients.

Benefits of a 3pl shipping software for eCommerce

• Efficiency: Automates shipping, label generation, tracking, and returns to remove manual work and reduce errors. Many 3PLs improve operational efficiency by over 60% while accelerating fulfillment speed.
• Customer experience: Provides real-time tracking and proactive notifications that customers expect. Around 80% of consumers value live updates, and branded tracking with smooth returns increases repeat purchases.
• Cost control: Optimizes carrier selection and automates return routing to reduce logistics waste. Advanced platforms can cut logistics costs by up to 8% through smarter allocation and fewer manual interventions.
• Visibility: Centralizes shipment and returns data into clear dashboards for performance control. Data-driven logistics teams are 23% more likely to reach above-average profitability.
• Retention: Supports tailored workflows and branded communication for each client. Around 70% of businesses link strong post-purchase experience to long-term growth and client retention.

How does 3PL software improve the international shipping process?

International shipping introduces more carriers, customs stages, and potential failure points. Centralized tracking gives full visibility across cross-border movements, customs clearance, and last-mile handovers in one unified timeline.

That visibility allows your team to react immediately to delays or delivery exceptions before they escalate. At the same time, clear and branded tracking updates reduce uncertainty for end customers during long transit times and strengthen trust in the brand.

The 7 best 3PL software for shipping management

1. Outvio

Outvio is a comprehensive 3PL platform that goes well beyond basic shipping management. It brings order processing, label creation, advanced tracking, returns, and branded post-purchase experiences into a single, unified dashboard.

Beyond shipment execution, Outvio helps 3PLs maintain tighter operational control. Inventory visibility stays centralized, routine workflows run automatically, and integrations with major eCommerce platforms keep data in sync without manual work.

Its multi-client architecture is especially valuable for 3PLs. Each client can have distinct workflows, carrier rules, notifications, and branded experiences—managed from the same environment. That structure makes it easier to scale without adding operational complexity, while still delivering a tailored service to every customer.

Key advantages

• End-to-end automation: Automate order processing, shipping, returns, and customer communications in one flow. This reduces manual handling, improves consistency, and lowers the risk of operational errors.
• Automated invoice checking: Carrier invoices are automatically verified against orders and fulfillment data, helping detect discrepancies early and supporting accurate, transparent billing for clients.
• AI-driven analytics: Access clear insights into carrier performance, delivery times, and post-purchase experience. These metrics support better routing decisions, carrier selection, and service optimization.
• Branded client portals: Offer real-time tracking and communication portals fully branded for each client, reinforcing trust and improving the end-customer experience without extra setup.
• Proactive issue management: Monitor shipments in real time and surface delivery risks early, allowing teams to act before issues reach the end customer.

2. Extensiv

Extensiv offers notable flexibility and comprehensive workflow automation. It enables third-party logistics providers (3PLs) to set up tailored rules for each client, such as choosing specific carriers, assigning unique shipping methods, or establishing custom notification triggers. The platform emphasizes effective multi-client data separation, ensuring that each business’s information remains distinct and secure.

Key advantages:

• Configurable shipping and fulfillment workflows that allow businesses to tailor processes to their unique operational needs.
• Multi-client data separation for privacy and compliance, ensuring each client's information is securely managed and meets regulatory standards.
• Batch order routing and intelligent carrier selection, which streamlines logistics by efficiently grouping orders and choosing the best shipping partners based on cost, speed, and reliability.
• Real-time shipment tracking and analytics, providing up-to-date visibility into order status and valuable insights to optimize performance.
• Integration with major e-commerce and carrier platforms, enabling seamless connectivity and automation across various sales channels and shipping providers.

Website: Extensiv

3. ShipBob

ShipBob is recognized for its extensive network of fulfillment centers and advanced shipping automation. The software directs orders to the nearest facility to speed up delivery, compares shipping rates instantly, and offers clients clear tracking information. Its compatibility with major e-commerce platforms makes it a strong choice for 3PLs working with online brands.

Key advantages:

• Automated order routing to the closest fulfillment center, ensuring faster delivery times and reduced shipping costs for your customers.
• Clear, real-time shipping rate comparison, allowing you to choose the most cost-effective and efficient shipping options for each order.
• Easy integration with Shopify, WooCommerce, Amazon, and more, streamlining your operations and enabling you to manage multiple sales channels from a single platform.
• Scalable to accommodate business growth, so the system can easily handle increased order volume and new locations as your business expands.
• Real-time visibility into inventory and shipments, providing you with up-to-date information to better manage stock levels and track orders throughout the fulfillment process.

Website: ShipBob

4. Infoplus

Infoplus offers customizable dashboards and workflows for each client, making it easy to adapt to different business models and requirements. Its strengths include robust reporting, automated alerts, and the ability to handle complex billing scenarios—perfect for 3PLs who want transparency and flexibility.

Key advantages:

• Customizable order and shipping workflows by client, allowing businesses to tailor processes to each customer’s unique requirements.
• Automated low-stock and exception alerts that notify you immediately when inventory levels drop or issues arise, helping prevent stockouts and delays.
• Multi-client portals with real-time stats, giving clients instant access to their order status, inventory levels, and shipment tracking information.
• Detailed reporting and analytics for operational insights, enabling data-driven decisions and identifying trends to improve efficiency and performance.
• Advanced billing and invoicing features that streamline financial processes, reduce manual work, and ensure accurate, timely payments.

Website: Infoplus

5. Logiwa

Logiwa is a cloud-based platform designed for efficient and scalable operations. It leverages AI to enhance shipping, packing, and demand forecasting, enabling 3PLs to minimize mistakes and boost productivity. With features supporting multiple sales channels and carriers, it is a practical solution for logistics companies managing high-volume and complex operations.

Key advantages:

• AI-powered shipping and demand forecasting, allowing businesses to accurately predict shipping needs and optimize inventory levels.
• Automated packing and carrier selection, which streamlines order fulfillment and ensures the most efficient and cost-effective delivery options are chosen.
• Management of multiple channels and clients, enabling seamless coordination across various sales platforms and customer accounts from a single dashboard.
• Fast onboarding and user-friendly interface, making it easy for new users to get started quickly with minimal training required.
• Real-time tracking and analytics, providing up-to-date information on shipments and performance metrics to support data-driven decision making.

Website: Logiwa

6. ShipHero

ShipHero is designed to support large-scale fulfillment operations by improving efficiency. Features such as batch-picking, mobile scanning, and real-time rate comparison help process high volumes of orders with accuracy and cost-effectiveness. The platform's real-time tools assist teams in maintaining productivity and responsiveness.

Key advantages:

• Batch-picking and mobile scanning to streamline warehouse operations, helping teams quickly locate, pick, and pack items efficiently, reducing errors and saving time.
• Real-time comparison of shipping rates from different carriers, allowing businesses to choose the most cost-effective and timely shipping options for every order.
• Management of multiple clients and warehouses, making it easy to organize inventory, track shipments, and handle logistics for different customers or locations from a single platform.
• Live order tracking and status updates, providing customers and staff with up-to-date information on order progress and delivery, improving transparency and customer satisfaction.
• Automated workflows for shipping and returns, reducing manual tasks and ensuring consistency in processing orders and handling returns for greater operational efficiency.

Website: ShipHero

7. Magaya

Magaya is recognized for its robust compliance and returns management capabilities. It is well-suited for 3PL providers working in industries with strict regulatory requirements, such as pharmaceuticals or perishables. The platform includes features for tracking expiration dates, maintaining audit trails, and supporting flexible billing.

Main benefits:

• Automated tools for compliance and audits, reducing manual work and ensuring regulatory requirements are consistently met
• Tracking of expiration dates and lot/batch numbers to help prevent errors, improve inventory accuracy, and ensure product safety
• Flexible billing options for complex client needs, allowing customization for various business models and unique customer requirements
• Real-time tracking and monitoring of environmental conditions, providing immediate alerts and historical data to maintain product quality and safety
• Streamlined returns management, making it easier to process returns efficiently and enhance customer satisfaction

Website: Magaya

3PL shipping solution pricing: What to expect

The price of 3PL software can vary dramatically, and understanding what drives those costs is essential for making a smart investment. Most solutions are priced based on your company’s size, the number of locations or warehouses you operate, your average order volume, and the specific features or integrations you require.

• Entry-level solutions typically range from $6,000 to $25,000 per year. These are best for small businesses or startups and generally include the basics: order management, simple shipping automation, and standard reporting tools
• Mid-tier platforms are designed for growing businesses that need more advanced features—such as multi-client management, automation, and deeper analytics. Expect to pay between $25,000 and $100,000 per year. These platforms usually support multiple locations and higher order volumes, and they offer integrations with popular e-commerce, ERP, and shipping systems.
• Enterprise-level systems start at $200,000 per year and are built for large, complex logistics operations. These solutions deliver advanced automation, custom integrations, robust security, and scalability for thousands of orders per day. They often offer on-premise deployment options for businesses with strict compliance or data requirements.

How to choose the right logistics 3PL software

Tips

• Define your business size and complexity: Evaluate your warehouse size, order volume, and number of clients. Select software that meets your current needs and can scale with your business growth
• Prioritize true multi-client capability: Make sure the software enables you to manage multiple clients separately, securely, and efficiently. This is crucial for any professional 3PL provider
• Check integration needs: Verify that the software integrates smoothly with your e-commerce platforms, ERP, accounting systems, and carriers. Reliable integrations save time and reduce errors
• Evaluate scalability: Choose a platform that can expand with your business, allowing you to add features, users, or warehouses easily
• Consider compliance and security: If you work in regulated industries (such as pharmaceutical or food), opt for solutions that offer compliance tools and robust data security

Common mistakes

• Focusing only on price: Selecting software solely based on cost can result in limited features and inadequate support that fail to meet your business requirements
• Assuming all “multi-client” features are equal: Not all multi-client modules provide the same functionality. Some may lack strong data separation, customization, or reporting, which can cause challenges as you grow
• Ignoring reporting and analytics capabilities: Platforms with only basic dashboards restrict your ability to analyze trends, measure performance, and deliver valuable insights to your clients
• Choosing software without enough customization: Using a platform that doesn’t offer flexible workflows, branding, or client-specific settings can make it hard to address unique client needs, risking satisfaction and retention
• Selecting software without the right transport integrations: Failing to ensure the software supports your preferred carriers or shipping methods can create operational delays, limit shipping choices, and lead to dissatisfied clients

How to maximize 3PL software ROI and recover your investment

Today, logistics operators (3PLs) must go beyond simply managing shipments and focus on transforming the order phase into a marketing experience that truly drives sales and customer loyalty. This involves personalizing communication, offering real-time tracking, and providing exceptional after-sales service.

With Outvio, the post-purchase stage becomes a powerful branding tool: by optimizing the shopping experience and strengthening brand presence, 3PL clients not only achieve higher sales but also improve the satisfaction and loyalty of their own customers. This increase in sales means the 3PL prints more labels, processes a higher volume of orders, and as a result, increases its revenue, creating a continuous and sustainable growth cycle.

Ultimately, the post-purchase stage represents a key opportunity to stand out from the competition and add real value to the service offered: by implementing Outvio, your clients will be able to boost their sales, while your company will experience sustained growth and a faster recovery of the investment made in the software.

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