Best 3PL Software for Ecommerce Businesses

For any ecommerce business looking to scale, efficient logistics and fulfillment are non-negotiable. As orders grow, managing warehousing, picking, packing, and shipping in-house can become a massive drain on resources and time. That’s where Third-Party Logistics (3PL) providers come in, offering specialized expertise and infrastructure to handle your entire fulfillment process.

But how do you ensure your 3PL partner is truly aligned with your business needs and provides transparency and control? The answer lies in robust 3PL software. This technology acts as the backbone, connecting your online store to the 3PL’s warehouse management systems, providing real-time data, and automating crucial tasks.

Investing in the right 3PL software or choosing a 3PL that utilizes a top-tier platform can significantly impact your operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and ultimately, your bottom line. It transforms a complex, manual process into a streamlined, data-driven operation, giving you peace of mind.

From inventory visibility to order tracking, returns management, and shipping optimization, the best 3PL software solutions are designed to empower ecommerce brands. They help you maintain control and gain insights, even when your products are physically thousands of miles away at a fulfillment center.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 3PL software platforms tailored for ecommerce, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and who they’re best suited for. Get ready to supercharge your fulfillment strategy!

• Streamlined order fulfillment and processing
• Real-time inventory visibility across all locations
• Reduced shipping costs through carrier optimization
• Enhanced customer satisfaction with faster, accurate deliveries

Quick Comparison Table

Tool	Best For	Key Strength	Ecommerce Fit
ShipBob	Growing DTC brands needing end-to-end fulfillment	Integrated 3PL services and powerful WMS	Excellent
Extensiv 3PL Warehouse Manager	Large 3PLs and high-volume ecommerce fulfillment	Comprehensive WMS features for complex operations	Excellent
CartonCloud	Small to medium 3PLs and integrated transport	Combined WMS and TMS in one platform	Very Good
Logiwa WMS	High-volume, multi-channel ecommerce operations	AI-powered automation and dynamic slotting	Excellent
Flexport (formerly Deliverr)	Fast, reliable fulfillment for diverse product types	Broad network and rapid fulfillment options	Excellent
Stord	Enterprise brands with complex supply chain needs	Integrated fulfillment, transportation, and WMS	Excellent
ShipHero WMS	Brands managing their own warehouses or 3PLs	Robust WMS for efficient in-house or partner fulfillment	Excellent

1. ShipBob — Best For Growing DTC Brands Needing End-to-End Fulfillment

Official Website:

https://www.shipbob.com/

ShipBob isn’t just a 3PL; it offers its own powerful software platform that clients use to manage inventory, orders, and track shipments across their network of fulfillment centers. Designed specifically for direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands, ShipBob provides a comprehensive solution for businesses looking to outsource their logistics without losing visibility or control. Their platform integrates seamlessly with major ecommerce platforms, providing a unified view of your operations.

With ShipBob, ecommerce businesses get access to enterprise-grade fulfillment technology. This includes features for inventory management, order routing, real-time analytics, and transparent pricing. It’s built to help brands scale, offering fast shipping options and a reliable fulfillment network that can adapt to fluctuating demand and geographic reach.

What We Like

• Seamless integration with major ecommerce platforms (Shopify, BigCommerce, etc.)
• Access to a distributed network of fulfillment centers for faster shipping
• Intuitive dashboard for real-time order tracking, inventory management, and analytics

Downsides

• Pricing can become complex for very high-volume or highly customized needs.

Best For

ShipBob is ideal for small to medium-sized DTC ecommerce brands experiencing rapid growth, who want to outsource their entire fulfillment operation to a tech-forward 3PL and gain efficiencies and scalability without heavy upfront investment in their own warehouse infrastructure or software.

2. Extensiv 3PL Warehouse Manager — Best For Large 3PLs and High-Volume Ecommerce Fulfillment

Official Website:

https://extensiv.com/solutions/3pl-warehouse-manager/

Extensiv (formerly 3PL Central) is a leading cloud-based warehouse management system (WMS) built specifically for 3PL providers. While not directly for ecommerce merchants to use in their own warehouses, it’s the software that many top 3PLs utilize to power their operations. If you’re an ecommerce business evaluating a 3PL, understanding the capabilities of the WMS they use, like Extensiv, is crucial for your success.

This software empowers 3PLs to manage complex inventory, process high volumes of orders, and integrate with a multitude of client systems, including various ecommerce platforms. Its robust feature set includes advanced billing, multi-client support, cross-docking, and comprehensive reporting, ensuring efficient and accurate fulfillment for their ecommerce clients.

What We Like

• Deep WMS functionality tailored for complex, multi-client 3PL operations
• Strong integration capabilities with client ecommerce platforms and ERPs
• Scalable to handle high volumes and diverse product types for 3PLs

Downsides

• As a WMS for 3PLs, it’s not a direct-to-merchant solution.

Best For

Extensiv 3PL Warehouse Manager is best for established 3PL providers who need a sophisticated, scalable WMS to manage multiple ecommerce clients, complex inventory rules, and high transaction volumes. Ecommerce businesses benefit by partnering with 3PLs that leverage such powerful software.

3. CartonCloud — Best For Small to Medium 3PLs and Integrated Transport

Official Website:

https://www.cartoncloud.com/

CartonCloud offers a unique cloud-based solution that combines a Warehouse Management System (WMS) and a Transport Management System (TMS) into a single, intuitive platform. This makes it particularly appealing for smaller to medium-sized 3PLs who also handle their own transportation or have close ties with specific carriers. For ecommerce businesses, working with a 3PL powered by CartonCloud means a more integrated and potentially more efficient supply chain from warehouse to delivery.

The software is known for its user-friendliness and focus on automating tasks to reduce manual data entry and errors. It provides features like barcode scanning, cross-docking, proof of delivery, and seamless integration with various accounting and ecommerce platforms. This unified approach can lead to better visibility and coordination across the entire logistics chain for ecommerce brands.

What We Like

• Integrated WMS and TMS functionality for end-to-end logistics management
• User-friendly interface and mobile app for warehouse and driver operations
• Strong automation features to reduce manual errors and improve efficiency

Downsides

• May not have the deepest feature set for highly specialized or extremely large enterprise 3PLs compared to some competitors.

Best For

CartonCloud is ideal for small to medium-sized 3PLs and logistics providers who seek an all-in-one cloud solution for both warehousing and transport management, serving ecommerce clients who value streamlined operations and transparent tracking from a single platform.

4. Logiwa WMS — Best For High-Volume, Multi-Channel Ecommerce Operations

Official Website:

Home

Logiwa WMS is a cloud-native warehouse management system designed to handle the complexities and high volumes of modern ecommerce and omnichannel fulfillment. It’s an ideal solution for 3PLs and brands that manage their own fulfillment, especially those dealing with rapid growth, multiple sales channels, and a diverse product catalog. Logiwa’s strength lies in its ability to automate warehouse processes using AI and machine learning.

For ecommerce businesses, Logiwa-powered 3PLs can offer superior inventory optimization, faster pick-pack processes, and intelligent shipping rule management. Its dynamic slotting, wave planning, and robotics integration capabilities mean that fulfillment operations are always running at peak efficiency, ensuring faster and more accurate order delivery to end customers.

What We Like

• Cloud-native platform with AI-powered automation for efficiency
• Supports high-volume, multi-channel ecommerce fulfillment needs
• Strong capabilities for inventory optimization, wave planning, and dynamic slotting

Downsides

• Implementation can be more involved due to its comprehensive feature set.

Best For

Logiwa WMS is best for high-growth ecommerce businesses and 3PLs serving them who require an advanced, automated, and scalable WMS to manage complex, high-volume, and multi-channel fulfillment operations, prioritizing speed and accuracy.

5. Flexport (formerly Deliverr) — Best For Fast, Reliable Fulfillment for Diverse Product Types

Official Website:

https://www.flexport.com/

Flexport, having acquired Deliverr, now offers an even more comprehensive global logistics and fulfillment solution. While Flexport is a broader logistics company, their fulfillment platform is specifically designed to give ecommerce brands access to rapid, cost-effective fulfillment solutions, often boasting 1-2 day delivery capabilities. Their software provides the crucial link between your online store and their extensive network of fulfillment centers.

Ecommerce businesses partnering with Flexport gain access to a tech-driven fulfillment network that optimizes inventory placement and shipping. The platform offers powerful integrations, transparent pricing, and robust analytics, allowing brands to manage their fulfillment seamlessly. It’s particularly strong for brands looking to compete on delivery speed and reach customers across the US and beyond efficiently.

What We Like

• Broad fulfillment network designed for rapid 1-2 day delivery
• Comprehensive software for inventory, order, and shipping management
• Scalable solution for brands looking to expand reach and delivery speed

Downsides

• Best value is typically unlocked at higher order volumes.

Best For

Flexport’s fulfillment solution is ideal for ecommerce businesses, particularly DTC brands, that prioritize fast, reliable, and nationwide delivery. It suits those looking to leverage a robust fulfillment network and technology to scale their operations and meet customer expectations for quick shipping.

6. Stord — Best For Enterprise Brands with Complex Supply Chain Needs

Official Website:

https://www.stord.com/

Stord offers a truly integrated solution combining a cloud-based software platform with a physical network of warehouses and transportation services. This makes them a unique player that caters particularly well to enterprise-level ecommerce businesses with more complex and bespoke supply chain requirements. Their software provides end-to-end visibility and control over inventory, orders, and shipments across their distributed network.

The Stord software platform is designed for advanced inventory management, order orchestration across multiple channels, and detailed reporting. It integrates with existing ERPs, OMS, and ecommerce platforms, providing a holistic view of the supply chain. For larger ecommerce brands, Stord provides the agility, scalability, and technological sophistication needed to manage intricate fulfillment demands and optimize logistics costs.

What We Like

• Integrated software platform and physical fulfillment network
• Robust features for complex inventory, order, and transportation management
• Designed for enterprise-level scale and customized supply chain solutions

Downsides

• Primarily targets larger, more complex operations, which might be overkill for small businesses.

Best For

Stord is best for enterprise-level ecommerce businesses and large brands with complex, global, or multi-channel supply chain needs who require a fully integrated software and physical logistics solution to optimize their entire fulfillment process.

7. ShipHero WMS — Best For Brands Managing Their Own Warehouses or 3PLs

Official Website:

https://shiphero.com/wms/

ShipHero offers both 3PL services and a powerful Warehouse Management System (WMS) software that ecommerce businesses can license to run their own fulfillment operations or provide to their own 3PL partners. The ShipHero WMS is known for its user-friendliness, robust feature set, and deep integrations with major ecommerce platforms like Shopify, BigCommerce, and Amazon.

For ecommerce brands, using ShipHero WMS directly means gaining full control over their warehouse processes, optimizing picking and packing, and managing inventory with precision. It automates critical tasks, provides real-time data on stock levels and order status, and helps reduce shipping errors. If you’re considering bringing fulfillment in-house or want your 3PL to use a specific, highly capable WMS, ShipHero is a top contender.

What We Like

• Feature-rich WMS suitable for both in-house and 3PL operations
• Excellent integrations with popular ecommerce platforms and marketplaces
• Designed to optimize picking, packing, and shipping workflows

Downsides

• Requires an investment in implementation and training if adopted for in-house use.

Best For

ShipHero WMS is ideal for ecommerce businesses that manage their own warehousing and fulfillment operations and need a powerful, integrated system to optimize efficiency. It’s also suitable for 3PLs looking for a scalable WMS solution to serve their ecommerce clients effectively.

How to Choose the Right Tool

Choosing the best 3PL software for your ecommerce business (or a 3PL powered by one) involves careful consideration of several factors. Here’s what to look for:

• Integration Capabilities: Ensure the software integrates seamlessly with your existing ecommerce platform (Shopify, WooCommerce, etc.), ERP, OMS, and other crucial tools. Data flow should be automated and real-time.
• Scalability: Does the solution grow with your business? Can it handle seasonal peaks, increasing order volumes, and expansion into new markets or product lines?
• Key Features: Look for essential WMS features like real-time inventory tracking, order management, shipping optimization, returns management, and reporting/analytics. Specialized features like kitting, bundling, or cold storage management might also be necessary.
• Visibility and Reporting: You need clear, accessible data on inventory levels, order status, shipping performance, and fulfillment costs. Dashboards and custom reports are crucial for making informed decisions.
• Customer Support: Good support from the software provider (or your 3PL) is vital for troubleshooting and maximizing the platform’s utility.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Evaluate the pricing model. Is it transaction-based, subscription-based, or a combination? Ensure it aligns with your budget and provides a clear ROI.
• Specialized Needs: Consider your unique product requirements (e.g., fragile items, hazardous materials, temperature-controlled storage) and ensure the software or the 3PL’s capabilities can accommodate them.

FAQ

What is 3PL software for ecommerce?

3PL software for ecommerce is a technology platform that connects an online store’s order and inventory data with a third-party logistics (3PL) provider’s warehouse management system. It enables seamless communication, automates fulfillment processes, provides real-time visibility into inventory and orders, and helps manage shipping, tracking, and returns for ecommerce businesses that outsource their logistics.

How does 3PL software benefit ecommerce businesses?

3PL software offers numerous benefits: it automates order fulfillment, reduces shipping costs through carrier optimization, provides real-time inventory visibility, improves order accuracy, accelerates delivery times, and enhances customer satisfaction. It allows ecommerce businesses to scale their operations without investing in their own warehouse infrastructure or staff, freeing up time to focus on sales and marketing.

What features should I look for in 3PL software?

Key features include real-time inventory management, multi-channel order orchestration, shipping rate optimization, automated pick-pack processes, return management (RMA), barcode scanning, robust reporting and analytics, and integrations with major ecommerce platforms (Shopify, BigCommerce, Magento) and marketplaces (Amazon, eBay). Cloud-based access and mobile capabilities are also highly beneficial.

Is 3PL software suitable for small businesses?

Yes, many 3PL software solutions or 3PLs using such software are increasingly catering to small and growing ecommerce businesses. While some enterprise-level solutions might be overkill, many platforms offer scalable pricing and features that allow even small businesses to access professional fulfillment, reduce operational headaches, and compete with larger brands on shipping speed and efficiency.

Final Verdict

The right 3PL software is a game-changer for any ecommerce business ready to scale its operations and optimize its logistics. By providing unparalleled visibility, automation, and control, these platforms empower you to deliver exceptional customer experiences while keeping fulfillment costs in check. Whether you’re partnering with a 3PL or managing your own warehouse, the technology you choose will define your success.

Best overall: ShipBob (for integrated 3PL services and powerful software)

Best budget option: While no direct “budget” 3PL software exists as it’s often included with 3PL services or a significant WMS investment, ShipHero WMS offers a strong feature set for its price point if you’re managing your own warehouse.

Best for scaling brands: Stord or Flexport (for comprehensive, scalable, and tech-driven fulfillment networks).