ABOUT M&W LOGISTICS — FAQ

What does 3PL Mean?

3PL stands for third-party logistics.

What is 3PL?

3PL, or third-party logistics, refers to a company’s use of third-party businesses to outsource elements of the company’s distribution and fulfillment services. A 3PL helps your business by providing expertise and resources to effectively integrate your existing supply chain.

When should I consider a 3PL service provider?

No matter the size of your business, when you let a 3PL handle the distribution, fulfillment, packing and shipping process, you automatically find yourself with purchasing power. A large business that doesn’t use a 3PL and ships product a few times a week is going to have higher costs for shipping than a small business who ships the same amount and partners with a 3PL.

The 3PL brings volume and value to a carrier, so in return your business is granted access to discounted freight carrier pricing.
A third-party logistics provider (3PL) can cut costs and get your product on the shelves in a more streamlined process.

What are the benefits of using a 3PL?

  1. Lower distribution cost by utilizing a shared cost model
  2. Gain access to their freight carrier network
  3. Save time and money
  4. Are provided with industry expertise and knowledge
  5. Become more agile within your market
  6. Receive tailored continuous support

What industries benefit from 3PL services?

Any company, regardless of size, that has daily needs, or infrequent needs, for the warehousing, packing or delivery of their products can benefit from third-party logistics. We frequently work with companies that manufacture or distribute automotive parts, foodstuffs, furniture, office supplies, building supplies, packaged goods, and industrial supplies.

Can M&W Logistics save my company money?

We certainly can. We are experts in transporting and warehousing and as such, we operate efficiently and take on the administrative, as well as the physical roles of your supply chain needs on your behalf. We offer reliable services with fixed costs.

What is your service area?

We are conveniently headquartered in Nashville, TN and we proudly service the entire southeast.

Will I know where my shipments are?

Yes. Our tracking system allows us to know exactly where your shipments are while enroute. We also offer detailed reporting and we’re available to answer any questions you might have.

What kind of services do you offer?

We offer warehousing, distribution, Asset Management, Food Grade Warehousing, Build-to-Suit Facilities, Contract Warehousing, Cross-dock Handling, Complete Distribution, Customized Reporting, Freight Consolidation, Public Warehousing, Raw Material Handling, Reverse Logistics, Refused Shipment Management, and other Value Added Services.

How long has M&W Logistics been in business?

In 1973, Jim McFarlin founded Consolidated Cartage. Today, his small 2-truck business has grown into M&W Logistics Group which operates more than 100 power units, over 400 trailers, and more than 400,000 square feet of warehousing space. Learn more about M&W’s history.

Does M&W offer food-grade warehousing and logistics?

Yes. We have more than 40 years of experience in distributing food and beverages. Some of the services we offer include receiving and distribution, light packing and restocking services. Our food-grade warehousing facilities are managed according to the American Institute of Baking (AIB) standards and we are also registered with the FDA.

Does M&W offer freight consolidation services?

Yes. We’ll help you cut transportation costs by consolidating your less-than-load (LTL) shipments into multi-stop truckload shipments using our asset-based fleet as freight consolidators as well as our distribution services.

Is public warehousing available?

Yes. M&W Logistics Group offers companies flexible long-term, short-term, or seasonal public warehousing solutions.

What kind of value-added services do you offer?

Yes. We offer a wide range of value-added services including (but not limited to): line sequencing for the automotive industry, lite assembly, quality inspections, raw material handling, kitting and final Assembly, pick & pack, labeling, ocean container loading, pallet displays, end-of-aisle-displays, and more.

Does M&W offer contract warehousing?

Yes. Our customized contract warehousing services allow our customers to tailor a dedicated space to fit their unique supply chain needs. We work with you to identify the most efficient and cost-effective solutions.

How are my goods stored?

Warehousing depends entirely on the goods, but generally, pallets are stored on pallet shelves or mass storage places. Smaller quantities (boxes/containers) can be stored on small item shelves.

Does M&W take care of warehouse inventory?

Yes, we’ll take care of inventory for you.

How can I request a quote?

M&W Logistics Group has been meeting the logistics and warehousing needs of our customers for more than 40 years. We’d be happy to serve you. Request a warehousing quote online.

Does M&W Logistics Group give back to the community?

Yes, we do. We are proud and humbled to partner with some incredible organizations throughout Middle Tennessee as we strive to give back to the community we live and work in.  Some of our philanthropic partners include Second Harvest Food Bank, the Nashville Rescue Mission, Soles 4 Soles, Girl Scouts of Middle Tennessee, and GraceWorks.

Where is M&W Headquartered?

Our corporate headquarters are located in Nashville, TN. Contact us at 615-620-1533 to learn more about our transportation services. Call us at 615-629-1539 to learn more about our warehousing services.