FeaturesDemand forecastingPurchase ordersFBA restockMulti-warehouseReorder alertsAI assistantAll features
IntegrationsAmazonShopifyeBayWooCommerceTikTok Shop (Coming soon)MintsoftLinnworksShipBobSlack & TeamsCSV importAll integrations
Who it's forMultichannel sellersAmazon sellersShopify brandsAgencies & 3PLsCompare
ResourcesGuidesGlossaryBlogFree calculatorsHelp centreDevelopersFree stockout report
Pricing
Log inStart free →

Home / Glossary / 3PL

Warehousing

3PL

Third-party logistics provider that stores and fulfils for you.

Definition

A 3PL is an external warehouse partner that receives, stores, picks, packs and ships on your behalf. For replenishment, the 3PL is usually a warehouse stock source with its own receiving lead time and cut-offs.

Worked example

Supplier ships DAP to your 3PL. After ASN receipt and put-away, OmniRestock sees sellable stock; you then create FBA inbounds from that pool.

Why it matters for replenishment

3PL receiving days belong in lead time. Ignoring them makes order-by dates optimistic.

How OmniRestock uses this

OmniRestock connects Mintsoft, Linnworks and ShipBob (and CSV) so 3PL stock can sit in your warehouse model beside marketplace channels.

Guides & calculators

Related terms

Common questions

Is FBA a 3PL?

Operationally similar, but Amazon’s rules and fees differ — plan FBA as its own source.

Do I still need purchase orders?

Yes. The 3PL holds stock; suppliers still need POs.

Which 3PLs connect?

Mintsoft, Linnworks and ShipBob, plus CSV for others.

Is a 3PL the same everywhere?

The idea is shared, but formulas and marketplace rules differ. Use the definition on this page for ecommerce replenishment.

Do I need software to track a 3PL?

A spreadsheet works for a few SKUs. Once you have many suppliers or channels, a replenishment tool keeps the numbers current.

Does OmniRestock change my live stock?

Not unless you switch Stock write or Purchase orders on for a connection. Drafts stay drafts until you confirm.

Explore more