Top 10 3PLs: Readers’ Choice Excellence Awards

Top 10 3PLs: Readers’ Choice Excellence Awards

The tally is in. These third-party logistics providers rounded up the most votes and won reader applause.

See who made the cut on this year’s Top 10 list!

 

Watch the countdown to the #1 3PL!

 

Our readers have taken note—the third-party logistics (3PL) providers named in the Top 10 3PL Excellence Awards come through for them time and again.

The 3PLs highlighted here are adaptable and creative. While the tempo of change accelerates, these providers continue to be resourceful and responsive, offering solutions in times of upheaval and volatility. Put to the test by shipper demands and shifting global dynamics, they continue to show they’re instrumental to supply chain efficiency.

These 3PLs stand out for their ability to manage inventory and deliver freight on time, even amidst uncertainty and disruptions.

This adaptability garnered recognition from our readers, who cast 12,500 votes in our survey this year. Echo Global Logistics once again received the most accolades, with logistics representatives from wide-ranging industries praising the company’s reliability in handling diverse volumes and complexities for businesses at various growth stages. Voters also praised the other 3PLs on the list for their excellent customer service and communication.

Leveraging Expertise

3PLs play a key role in maintaining supply chain fluidity, even during challenges like port shutdowns, labor shortages, and tariff whiplash. They achieve this by leveraging their expertise, experience, resources, and technological offerings to manage all or part of a shipper’s transportation and logistics operations.

Survey participants represent a range of industries. Voters include supply chain decision-makers from well-known companies such as Amazon, Apple, Costco, Honeywell, IKEA, Google, Kimberly-Clark, Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Samsung Electronics, Pfizer, and Walmart.

Consistently excellent and remarkably adaptable, the top 3PLs our audience selects year after year are their go-to providers. They are resourceful and responsive, offering solutions for everything from daily transportation and warehousing needs to seasonal demand surges and next-gen logistics technology implementations.

Their boundless responsiveness continues to keep the beat for logistics excellence.


1. ECHO GLOBAL LOGISTICS

Headshot of Doug Waggoner, CEO of Echo Global Logistics.

Doug Waggoner, Chief Executive Officer

Echo Global Logistics is a leading provider of technology-enabled transportation and supply chain management services. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, Echo was created in 2005 with one objective: to simplify transportation management.

Headquartered in Chicago with more than 60 locations across North America, Echo offers freight brokerage and Managed Transportation Solutions for all major modes, including Truckload, Partial Truckload, LTL, Intermodal, Cross-Border, and food-grade and Temperature-Controlled transportation services.

Named one of Newsweek’s Most Trusted Companies in America, Echo leverages its proprietary, web-based and mobile app technology, analyzing data from its network of more than 50,000 transportation providers to help its more than 35,000 clients simplify the critical tasks involved in transportation management. With the latest in artificial intelligence and innovative load-matching algorithms, Echo tailors individualized service to every client’s unique transportation needs.

In addition to providing transportation solutions for all major modes, Echo also offers food-grade and temperature-controlled warehousing and warehouse solutions nationally. Following a full-service model, every facility is highly organized, inspected, and strategically located to enable next day shipping to 85% of the contiguous U.S. Most recently, Echo increased its existing cross-border services with locations in Mexico as well as expanded solutions in Canada.

Echo combines its advanced technology with expert, 24/7 service, ensuring every shipper and carrier can access top-of-the-line solutions while receiving readily available support every step of the way. This combination of technology and dedicated team members is what sets Echo apart from other 3PLs.

In a highly competitive industry, delivering reputable and reliable service fosters trust and transparency, critical elements in the business of transportation management. As the people at Echo like to say, they provide technology at your fingertips and experts by your side.

Client Roster
  • Culligan International
  • Duracell
  • Greenheck
  • Johnstone Supply
  • Newell
  • Ghost
  • Tire Rack
  • The Container Store

Photo of the Echo office.


2. Hub Group

Headshot of Phillip D. Yeager President, Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman, Hub Group.

Phillip D. Yeager, President, Chief Executive Officer and Vice Chairman

Hub Group delivers innovative, industry-leading transportation and logistics solutions to customers across multiple industries. With a robust network and fleet that combines its own assets, strategic relationships, and cutting-edge technology, Hub Group supports its customers’ needs. The company’s reputation is built on stability, applying years of industry experience while continuing to add to its suite of supply chain solutions.

Hub Group’s North American solutions include intermodal, truck brokerage, dedicated, temperature controlled, LTL, managed transportation, consolidation, fulfillment, and final mile. It designs custom supply chain solutions for customers, leveraging the tools and capacity necessary to support the seasonality of their business, scale with their growth and deliver the service and quality they expect.

Hub Group’s award-winning logistics solutions are designed for customers that want better control over costs, higher levels of service and a streamlined approach to their supply chain. The company harnesses proprietary technology to optimize multimodal networks for customers operating throughout North America. Hub Group’s strategic network of technology-driven, highly automated warehouses provides access to 99.7% of the U.S. population within an average of 1.2 days, allowing customers to stage inventory and fulfill ecommerce orders with confidence. Its consolidation programs ensure better performance, on-shelf availability and compliance for retail-bound shippers. Through customer-centric strategies, Hub Group centralizes communication, management and accountability while delivering a seamless network aimed at generating savings and service, while continuously assessing for improvements to drive long-term success.

The company’s multi-modal solutions are purposely blended and crafted for customers. With nearly 6,000 employees and drivers across the globe, Hub Group is always in pursuit of “The Way Ahead” – a commitment to service, integrity and innovation.

Group of workers near Hub Group trucks.


3. Sunset Transportation

Headshot of Lindsey Graves, CEO, Sunset Transportation.

Lindsey Graves, CEO

Sunset Transportation was recognized for the 8th consecutive year on Inbound Logistics’ Top 10 3PL list—this year earning its highest-ever ranking at #3. This honor reflects the strength of its customer relationships, the agility of its solutions, and the dedication of its people.

As a privately held 3PL, Sunset offers a full suite of domestic and international logistics services, including truckload, LTL, intermodal, warehousing, cross-border, and global freight forwarding. Its approach is rooted in partnership—Sunset acts as an extension of its customers’ supply chain teams, delivering flexible, high-touch solutions that reduce cost and improve performance.

What sets Sunset apart is a people-first culture, combined with the strength of parent company, Armada Sunset Holdings. Through the support of sister companies Armada and ATEC Logistics, Sunset Transportation offers robust warehouse, supply chain, and transportation solutions backed by decades of operational excellence and best-in-class technology. Together, the companies bring scale, stability, and strategic collaboration to customers—with the responsiveness and care Sunset is known for.

Recent initiatives reflect Sunset’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, including investments in automation and AI-driven tools that enable smarter workflows, faster execution, and greater supply chain visibility. 

“Being named a Top 3PL by Inbound Logistics for the eighth year—and reaching our highest-ever ranking—is an incredible honor,” says Lindsey Graves, CEO of Sunset Transportation. “This recognition is a testament to our team’s passion, our customers’ trust, and our belief that when people feel valued, they do exceptional work. That’s the foundation of everything we do at Sunset.”

Workers at the Sunset Transportation office.


4. Kenco

Headshot of Denis Reilly, President & CEO, Kenco.

Denis Reilly, President & CEO

Kenco is privately held and smaller than many other top 3PLs, lending to its agility and customer-centric approach. But it also boasts similar operating scale and access to cutting-edge technology that its larger, publicly traded competitors offer.

From robotic process automation and proprietary, AI-enabled predictive analytics to large-scale automation and robotic fulfillment, Kenco offers the best of both worlds between niche, customized solutions and nationwide, service-integrated omnichannel delivery.

Its primary offerings include value-added distribution and fulfillment, transportation services, MHE fleet solutions and automation guidance, and supply chain consulting, design, and innovation. The Kenco Innovation Lab is noted for its innovation-as-a-service (InaaS) model and ability to quickly pilot and deploy physical and digital solutions with a low cost of entry.

It has also recently doubled down on its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, and is actively partnering with customers to build more sustainable and resilient supply chains.

Kenco has always been recognized first and foremost for its world-class lean operating system and people-first culture, driven by its motto to “be honest, serve, get better.” That’s why the typical contract client stays with Kenco for 14 years, and why it consistently earns best-in-class net promoter scores.

“Our consistent ranking on the Top 10 List these last several years is a testament to our continuous, strong commitment to our customers,” says Denis Reilly, president and CEO of Kenco. “We help companies achieve real results using agile best-in-class logistics solutions, technology and talent. It is an honor to be recognized by our customers and the industry at large again this year.”

Client Roster
  • Alphalete
  • Chevron
  • Dow
  • General Mills
  • Jeni’s
  • Oatley
  • Reckitt
  • Stryker
  • Whirlpool

Kenco warehouse.


5. WWEX GROUP

Headshot of Tom Madine, CEO, WWEX Group.

Tom Madine, CEO

The WWEX Group family of brands, which includes Worldwide Express, GlobalTranz, Unishippers, JEAR Logistics and BLX Logistics, is a full-service 3PL servicing over 113,000 customers. That scale allows the company to combine strong multi-mode carrier relationships, innovative technology and passionate people to deliver enterprise-level solutions that simplify the supply chain for SMB and mid-market shippers.

Parcel. WWEX Group is the largest non-retail authorized reseller of UPS®, making it one of the only 3PLs to offer every shipping mode. This unique relationship means it delivers enterprise-level parcel advantages to businesses of all sizes, helping them ship smarter through competitive rates, data-driven strategies and personalized support.

Freight. Whether it’s LTL, truckload or specialty freight, WWEX Group connects shippers to an expansive freight carrier network, tailored solutions and continuous capacity. Its carrier partnerships and buying power give customers the flexibility and confidence to move freight efficiently and cost-effectively.

Technology. The company’s innovative technology empowers customers to smartly manage their entire shipping operations with ease. Designed for visibility, control and efficiency, WWEX Group’s technology helps transform logistics into a powerful growth driver.

People. WWEX Group brands are built on a people-first culture grounded in service, accountability and innovation. Their teams don’t just move shipments — they move businesses forward and make it right for customers. This commitment has made WWEX Group one of the fastest growing 3PLs.

Awards. WWEX Group has been recognized by Transport Topics 2025 as the #4 Top Freight Brokerage and a Top 100 Logistics Company, ranked #17.

“We’ve built WWEX Group on the belief that logistics should make business easier, not harder,” says Tom Madine, WWEX Group CEO. “It’s the combination of our scale, people, tech and our carrier partnerships that turn shipping into a real advantage for our customers.”

A group of WWEX employees at work.


6. DHL SUPPLY CHAIN

Headshots of Mark KunarCEO, DHL Supply Chain North America.

Mark Kunar, CEO, DHL Supply Chain North America

DHL Supply Chain North America, stands at the forefront of the logistics industry, recognized as a ‘Leader’ in Gartner’s 2025 Magic Quadrant for Third-Party Logistics for the tenth consecutive year.

As the premier contract logistics provider within the DHL Group, it is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive suite of integrated solutions that enhance flexibility and speed while building resilience and future-proofing customers’ supply chains. In a rapidly evolving market characterized by economic challenges and shifting consumer trends, DHL Supply Chain empowers its customers by providing unparalleled supply chain visibility and innovative solutions tailored to their needs.

A key strength of DHL Supply Chain is its commitment to enhancing supply chain visibility through digitalization, which provides customers with greater transparency and adaptability in navigating economic challenges and evolving consumer trends. The company has made significant advancements in automation, having picked over 500 million units using collaborative robots and introducing cutting-edge solutions like Stretch from Boston Dynamics.

Sustainability is another cornerstone of DHL Supply Chain’s operations. The deployment of over 100 EV yard trucks and 20 EV over-the-road trucks minimizes environmental impact while optimizing logistics efficiency, aligning with the growing demand for eco-friendly solutions in the industry.

Moreover, DHL Supply Chain prioritizes its workforce by fostering a culture of learning and development. The company invests in training programs and mentorship initiatives to attract and retain top talent, ensuring that employees are equipped to deliver exceptional service.

Recent strategic acquisitions, including Inmar Supply Chain Solutions and IDS Fulfillment, further bolster DHL Supply Chain’s offerings, making it the largest provider of reverse logistics solutions in North America and enhancing capabilities for small and midsize companies.

With a diverse clientele, including notable brands like Carhartt, Kenvue, and Advanced Drainage Systems, DHL Supply Chain continues to set industry standards. CEO Mark Kunar emphasizes, “Customer supply chain needs are creating a transformative environment, necessitating innovation and adaptability to thrive in the current landscape. At DHL Supply Chain, we use our expertise and product solutions to adapt and grow, ensuring that we remain a key partner to our customers.”

DHL truck being loaded with boxes.


7. Ryder

Headshot of Robert Sanchez, Chairman & CEO, Ryder.

Robert Sanchez, Chairman & CEO

As a $12.6 billion fully integrated port-to-door supply chain and logistics company, Ryder provides supply chain, dedicated transportation, and fleet management solutions to some of the world’s most recognizable brands across 20+ industries. By combining cutting-edge technology and business intelligence tools with more than 90 years of operational know-how, Ryder custom-engineers solutions around its customers’ operations, rather than fitting them into a one-size-fits-all formula.

To fully optimize supply chains and transportation networks, Ryder continues to build on $1.7 billion in strategic investments it has made since 2021 to develop, acquire, and invest in innovative customer-facing technologies, products, and services. As part of that, Ryder collaborates with start-ups tackling disruptions in supply chain, driven by accelerating demand for ecommerce, asset sharing, next-generation vehicles, and digital technologies.

Ryder’s technology suite includes the one-of-a-kind visibility and collaboration platform RyderShareTM, enabling everyone involved in moving goods through supply chains – including shippers, receivers, carriers, and service providers – to see exceptions in real time and work together to prevent costly delays and find efficiency gains.

Ryder continues to expand its e-fulfillment network with a proven technology and operating platform, RyderShipTM, enabling scalable e-commerce and omnichannel fulfillment solutions for brands big and small. For last-mile big-and-bulky deliveries, RyderViewTM enables consumers to self-schedule deliveries and provides all parties notifications, order tracking, and 100% real-time visibility.

Whether managing the entire port-to-door journey or a piece of it, Ryder has the infrastructure, the technology, and the expertise — the result of years of deep industry experience, strategic acquisitions, maintaining and operating hundreds of thousands of trucks, piloting automation, and developing technology platforms that keep it all connected. Every piece of it was built to help companies solve today’s supply chain challenges—and anticipate tomorrow’s.

Client Roster
  • BJC HealthCare
  • Do it Best
  • ICON/NordicTrack
  • Mugsy Jeans
  • Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits
Workers at a Ryder facility.

8. R2 Logistics

Headshot of Kate Quinn, CEO, R2 Logistics.

Kate Quinn, CEO

R2 Logistics has earned its reputation as a leader in the industry by living its core principle: “Customer Service is Priority Number One.” This commitment reflects the company’s recognition that every client has unique needs.

The experienced team at R2 collaborates closely with each customer to understand their specific supply chain challenges. By delivering customized logistics solutions, R2 fosters long-term partnerships built on trust, rather than one-time transactions.

In a market where conditions can shift quickly, R2’s transportation management system (TMS) equips shippers with the tools to stay ahead. The TMS enhances supply chain visibility and delivers critical data insights to support smart, timely decisions.

With R2 Logistics, customers benefit not only from top-tier service but also from cutting-edge technology that supports their long-term growth and success.
An R2 Logistics tablet.


9. Lynden

Headshot of Stuart Nakayama,President, Lynden Logistics.

Stuart Nakayama, President, Lynden Logistics

Over land, on the water, in the air—or in any combination—Lynden has been helping customers solve transportation problems for almost a century. Operating in challenging locations around the globe, Lynden has built a reputation of superior service to diverse industries including oil and gas, mining, construction, retail and manufacturing.

The Lynden family of companies delivers a completely integrated freight transportation package including truckload and less-than-truckload transportation, scheduled and charter barges, rail barges, intermodal bulk chemical hauls, scheduled and chartered air freighters, domestic and international air forwarding, international ocean forwarding, customs brokerage, trade show shipping, remote site construction, sanitary bulk commodities hauling, 3PL warehousing and distribution, and multi-modal logistics. At Lynden, complex transportation problems are solved with the right people, with the right tools and the right experience.

From origin to destination, over any terrain, managing freight movement, as well as the flow of information, Lynden provides innovative solutions to meet customers’ unique needs. By focusing on challenging opportunities and developing niche markets, Lynden seamlessly adapts to changing market conditions and requirements. This approach has been key to its evolution from an Alaska and Washington trucking company to a diverse global transportation and logistics company.

From humble beginnings as a two-horse operation in Lynden, WA, to pioneering over-the-road service from the Lower 48 to Alaska in the 1950s, the Lynden family of companies still operates under the original philosophy: put the customer first, work hard, deliver quality and be the best.

“Today more than ever, it’s vitally important to provide agile and flexible transportation and logistics options to our customers,” says Stuart Nakayama, President of Lynden Logistics. “Our industry requires critical thinking and experienced decision making. Our Lynden team provides award-winning customer service, creating the Lynden experience of excellence while reliably transporting goods safely, intact, and on time.”

Photos of Lynden ship and truck.


10. ODW Logistics

Headshot of John R. Ness, CEO, ODW Logistics.

John R. Ness, CEO

ODW Logistics is a leading provider of contract logistics, freight consolidation, and managed transportation services—delivering end-to-end supply chain solutions for both B2B and DTC shippers.

Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, ODW combines warehousing, fulfillment, and freight management into a unified approach that helps clients reduce total landed costs, improve service levels, and scale with confidence.

Since its founding in 1971, this privately held company has focused on transforming logistics challenges into growth opportunities through collaboration, transparency, and long-term, trusted partnerships. Its comprehensive suite of services includes supply chain network design, warehousing and distribution, e-commerce fulfillment, and managed transportation—offering a fully integrated logistics solution. With a national footprint of modern, high-performance fulfillment centers across the U.S., ODW supports scalable warehousing solutions for hundreds of national and global brands.

From labor optimization and inventory control to value-added services such as kitting, packaging, and returns management, ODW delivers flexible solutions that align with evolving retail and fulfillment strategies.

ODW’s proprietary software platform, ODW-LINK, provides robust capabilities across managed transportation, warehouse management, labor optimization, and advanced supply chain visibility. By leveraging tier-1 WMS and TMS platforms along with 24/7 control tower monitoring, customers gain real-time insight into inventory, order flows, and transportation activities—enabling proactive operations management.

Through its integrated approach, proprietary technology, and commitment to partnership, ODW Logistics empowers customers to reduce supply chain costs, build resilient networks, and gain a competitive edge. Its freight consolidation programs minimize touchpoints, reduce LTL shipments, and maximize truckload efficiency—aligning with major retailer requirements while reducing carbon footprint. Additionally, its dedicated e-commerce and omnichannel fulfillment solutions help brands scale direct-to-consumer operations with flexible, fast, and accurate delivery.

“Our mission is to deliver the difference to every client with trusted, strategic, and innovative logistics solutions,” shared John Ness, CEO. “We are proud of the relationships we’ve built, and this recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team.”

Whether enabling national retail distribution or supporting a fast-growing DTC brand, ODW Logistics delivers integrated logistics solutions that reduce costs, increase agility, and position customers for long-term success.