42nd Annual Quest for Quality Awards Third-party Logistics (3PL)

If there’s one segment of the logistics market that’s leveraged the current turmoil as an accelerator for innovation it’s clearly third-party logistics (3PL) providers.

Our reporting over the past year has shown that 3PLs have shown remarkable adaptability, with many providers reworking operations in warehousing, freight transportation, and value-added services to stay competitive and help shippers figure out a way forward—be it with the roiling currents of global trade or setting up e-commerce fulfillment operations here in the U.S.

And while the collective 3PL market took a sizeable revenue hit over 2023 and 2024, the persistence and hard work appears to be paying off. Even through this topsy-turvy economy, Armstrong & Associates projects that the 3PL sector is still poised for growth, with projections indicating a 4.5% increase in gross revenue in 2025.

“There’s little doubt that technology implementation and innovation are key factors enabling 3PLs to remain resilient and grow,” says contributing editor Karen Theurmer, who’s been covering the 3PL market for LM over the past three years. “Many companies are turning to automation, AI, and IoT to enhance operational efficiency and streamline service offerings—especially for shippers looking to leverage 3PLs to grow their e-commerce.

And as e-commerce continues to reshape consumer expectations, 3PLs are playing a critical role in helping shippers meet the growing demands for faster, more efficient fulfillment. “By offering advanced warehousing solutions, omnichannel distribution, and last-mile delivery services, 3PLs are enabling businesses to scale their e-commerce operations effectively,” adds Theurmer.

And while revenue forecasts are starting to tick back up, the 44 3PLs picking up Quest for Quality gold in 2025 can rest assured that their investment in innovation has already paid off. In fact, this year marks a new record of winners in the 3PL category since we separated the market into two distinct areas with the help of Armstrong & Associates—Transportation Management and Value-Added Services.

In our Transportation Management category this year, an impressive 28 3PLs are hanging awards. While all scored above the weighted average, Saddle Creek Logistics Services (56.79), AIT Worldwide Logistics (56.76), and NFI Logistics (56.28) put up the top three overall weighted scores this year. In the 2025 Value-Added category, 16 providers are taking home Quest for Quality awards, with Averitt putting up the top mark with an impressive 56.99 overall weighted score.

Third-Party Logistics Companies: Transportation Management (Bold indicates leader in attribute category)

Third-Party Logistics Companies: Value Added Services (Bold indicates leader in attribute category)