How much does 3PL software cost in 2024?
Are you a third-party logistics provider looking to invest in 3PL management software, but not sure how much you should be paying? The cost of 3PL software varies between providers and is contingent on a number of factors, as well as your business’ specific requirements. In this guide, we will outline the factors that dictate the cost of 3PL software, including tips on how to get the best value for money.
How much does a 3PL management software cost?
The cost of 3PL management software is primarily influenced by the size of the business, generally calculated by the number of clients being serviced and the number of monthly orders being handled.
Prices can vary from £375 per month for small, entry level 3PL providers, to over £1,150+ per month for larger 3PLs who manage a significantly higher number of clients and orders.
At Mintsoft, we are transparent with our 3PL software pricing, and offer 5 different plans to suit all sizes of providers:
- Starter - Pricing for our starter 3PL software starts at £375 per month, and is suitable for 3PLs managing up to 10 clients and up to 3,000 orders per month. This includes access to 2 free initial training sessions for staff to learn how to use and make the most of the software.
- Medium - Pricing for our medium 3PL software starts at £649 per month, and is suitable for 3PLs managing up to 15 clients and up to 5,000 orders per month. This includes access to 2 free initial training sessions for staff to learn how to use and make the most of the software.
- Large - Pricing for our large 3PL software starts at £899 per month, and is suitable for 3PLs managing up to 20 clients and up to 7,500 orders per month. This includes access to 2 free initial training sessions for staff to learn how to use and make the most of the software.
- Extra Large - Pricing for our extra large 3PL software starts at £1,149 per month, and is suitable for 3PLs managing up to 30 clients and up to 10,000 orders per month. This includes access to 2 free initial training sessions for staff to learn how to use and make the most of the software.
- Enterprise - Our enterprise 3PL software is costed on a POA basis, and offers complete flexibility with custom client volumes, bespoke training arrangements as well as custom order volumes.
What features are included in the cost of 3PL software?
Most 3PL software systems include basic features such as picking & packing information, courier and storage data, and billing functionality. While this may suffice for smaller 3PLs, larger organisations may require the following features that are included in some 3PL software packages.
Automated Order Processing
The ability to streamline the entire order process from start to finish, including order acceptance, payment processing, shipping, and customer notifications.
Inventory Management
Managing your inventory, including tracking inventory levels, setting reorder points, and monitoring stock levels.
Customer Management
Keeping track of customer data and preferences, including contact information, order history, and payment information.
Reporting and Analytics
Generating reports and analysing data to gain insights into customer behaviour, product performance, and more.
Returns and Refunds
Creating return and refund policies, processing returns and refunds, and tracking returns.
Integration
Integrating with other software systems, such as e-commerce platforms, accounting software, shipping providers, and more.
Hidden costs to plan for in your budget
You should be aware that investing in 3PL software can incur additional, hidden costs that aren’t included in the monthly subscription cost with a provider.
Implementation
Some 3PL software providers may charge extra fees for creating or developing complex features that are specific to your organisation.
On-boarding and training
As is typical with new software, staff will require initial training on a 3PL management system. We recommend allocating 3-5 days for training, which will allow teams to practise using the new system, as well as provide feedback or ask questions while trainees are available.
It is also important to budget for ongoing training of existing staff as well as new team members.
Customisations
3PL management systems can be custom-made to suit a specific business or type of operation. While this is optimal for smoother daily operations, it is likely this will incur additional cost with 3PL software providers due to many systems not being designed for a high level of customisation, and workarounds may be required.
Technical support
When considering the cost of a 3PL management system, make sure you also factor in the cost of technical support. Some 3PL software providers may offer free technical support, while others might only provide paid-for support services. It is important to establish what level of technical support is available and how much it will cost.
Reasons why 3PLs use management software
3PL providers can often get bogged down in time-consuming, manual aspects of third-party logistics such as invoicing. This can cause problems especially with periods of expansion or growth. With 3PL software, nearly all time-consuming processes are automated leading to faster order completion and fewer errors. This not only saves costs but improves client and customer satisfaction.
By connecting users with real-time access to data and reporting, admin overheads are significantly reduced, with clients having direct access to all information and no need to contact you.
How to determine ROI when using 3PL software
The return on investment (ROI) of 3PL management software depends on the amount of time and money it saves. Although it can be challenging to measure the exact monetary return of this investment, benefits like enhanced operational efficiency, quicker order processing, improved customer service, and satisfaction can all indicate positive returns that ultimately translate into profits.
How to get low cost 3PL management software
Selecting the right management software for your 3PL can prove to be challenging, given the range of systems and pricing options available. To start, you must first establish an approximate budget that will eliminate several software packages that are currently unaffordable right now.
The next step is to consider the features that are most valuable right now, as well as considering any features that you may require in both the short-term and long-term future.
Learn more about Minsoft’s 3PL management software to get a better understanding of what your business may need.
Mintsoft offers 3PL management software with transparent pricing plans with clear, easy to use features and plenty of opportunities for customisation and integration, all at an affordable cost.
