When you’re trying to decide who to trust with your freight, you’ll often hear the terms “3PL” and “freight broker” thrown around. While they’re sometimes used interchangeably, the reality is: they serve different functions in the supply chain. Understanding the difference can help you choose the right partner for your business.
Klaidi Shyti, our very own at RJ Logistics, puts it simply:
“The trucking company is the muscle, the customer is the brain, and we’re the nerves that connect all the communication and everything it takes to provide great customer service.”
Let’s break it down.
What is a 3PL (Third-Party Logistics Provider)?
A 3PL offers comprehensive logistics services beyond just arranging transportation. They often provide: – Warehousing – Inventory management – Shipping software – Fulfillment solutions – End-to-end supply chain support
Think of a 3PL as an outsourced logistics department. For businesses that need help managing a broader scope of operations — from storing goods to managing distribution — a 3PL might be the right fit.
Pros of a 3PL: – Offers multiple logistics services under one roof – Can scale with your business – Helpful for complex or high-volume supply chains
Cons of a 3PL: – May be more expensive for smaller operations – Less flexibility due to standardized systems – Not always ideal for simple point A to point B shipments
What is a Freight Broker?
A freight broker, like RJ Logistics, focuses on connecting shippers with reliable carriers. We don’t own trucks or warehouses. Instead, we act as the communication hub between the customer and the carrier.
As Klaidi explains:
“A true brokerage company is basically connecting a customer that is shipping freight with a trucking company or many trucking companies, depending on volume.”
We specialize in coordinating transportation, providing status updates, solving problems, and building contingency plans (Plan B, C, and even D) when things go wrong.
Pros of a Freight Broker: – Fast and flexible carrier sourcing – Deep industry relationships with vetted carriers – High level of service and communication – Often more cost-effective for shippers with straightforward needs
Cons of a Freight Broker: – Doesn’t offer warehousing or software – Not ideal if you need integrated fulfillment services
So Which One Do You Need?
If your business requires warehousing, distribution, and full supply chain outsourcing, a 3PL may be the right choice. But if you need:
- A partner to help you move freight efficiently
- Someone who will communicate clearly and solve problems fast
- A flexible, relationship-based partner who can scale with your volume
…then a freight broker like RJ Logistics is your best bet.
What sets us apart isn’t just what we do — it’s how we do it.
“We help the trucking company succeed and do a good job, while giving the customer the attention they need with updates, reporting, communication, and problem solving.”
We believe in transparency, responsiveness, and real human connection. That’s why we’ve built long-lasting relationships with both shippers and carriers. Our focus isn’t on checking boxes; it’s on delivering results and solving problems before they happen.
Why RJ Logistics?
We don’t pretend to be a 3PL. We specialize in what we’re best at: freight brokerage done right. And for many of our customers, that’s exactly what they need — a high-performing, reliable logistics partner who understands urgency, communicates proactively, and makes things happen.
Whether you’re shipping flatbed freight, time-sensitive cargo, or something out-of-the-box, our team is ready to connect you with the right solution — and the right carrier — every time.
Let’s move freight the way it should be moved.
RJ Logistics – Communication is our superpower.
