In today’s ultra-connected world, consumers expect a unified shopping experience—whether they’re browsing online, ordering via mobile, or picking up in-store. For retailers, delivering that level of consistency across all channels is both a massive opportunity and a massive challenge.
Omnichannel retailing isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the new baseline. And the key enabler of this evolution? A strategic partnership with a third-party logistics provider (3PL).
At Bergen Logistics, we help brands bridge the gap between eCommerce, brick-and-mortar, marketplaces, and everything in between. In this article, we’ll explore how 3PLs are transforming the way retailers implement and scale effective omnichannel strategies, and why now is the time to act.
What Is Omnichannel Retail—and Why Does It Matter?
Omnichannel retailing refers to a unified approach to sales and fulfillment that integrates all customer touchpoints, including:
- Direct-to-consumer (DTC) eCommerce
- Brick-and-mortar stores
- Mobile apps
- Marketplaces like Amazon or Zalando
- Social commerce (e.g., Instagram, TikTok)
- Click-and-collect or ship-from-store models
The goal is simple: create a seamless experience where customers can shop, purchase, and receive products however they prefer.
Retailers with strong omnichannel strategies retain an average of 89% of their customers, compared to just 33% for those without (Aberdeen Group).
But delivering on that promise requires complex logistics coordination, real-time inventory visibility, and flawless execution across multiple platforms.
That’s where a 3PL comes in.
Why Retailers Are Turning to 3PLs for Omnichannel Support
Managing an omnichannel strategy in-house demands a level of infrastructure, staffing, and technology that can quickly become overwhelming—especially for fast-scaling brands.
A 3PL like Bergen Logistics becomes a strategic partner that eliminates operational friction, enables rapid fulfillment, and ensures accuracy across every channel.
Let’s break down the specific ways a third-party logistics provider supports your omnichannel success:
1. Unified Inventory Across All Channels
One of the biggest challenges in omnichannel retail is inventory visibility. When stock is siloed—separated between your eCommerce, retail, and wholesale channels—it leads to:
- Overselling and stockouts
- Manual reconciliation
- Inefficient inventory utilization
A 3PL with an advanced Warehouse Management System (WMS) solves this by centralizing inventory data across all sales platforms.
At Bergen Logistics, we use CloudX Systems, our proprietary WMS designed specifically to handle omnichannel complexity. It provides:
- Real-time stock updates across locations and channels
- Centralized visibility for your entire team
- Dynamic inventory allocation based on channel priority or demand
No more guesswork. Just accurate inventory—always where you need it.
2. Fast, Flexible Fulfillment That Meets Channel Expectations
Every sales channel has its own customer expectations and SLA requirements:
- Amazon demands fast fulfillment and strict delivery windows.
- Shopify stores prioritize branded packaging and personalized touches.
- Wholesale orders require bulk handling and compliance with strict routing guides.
A 3PL adapts to these nuances—seamlessly fulfilling different order types from the same stock pool.
At Bergen Logistics, we’ve optimized our omnichannel fulfillment processes to meet:
- DTC and retail order fulfillment with customized packaging
- Drop shipping and wholesale replenishment
- Ship-from-store or click-and-collect support
- Global shipping with localized compliance
We don’t just ship boxes—we ship the right product, the right way, every time.
3. Integrated Technology for Real-Time Visibility
Success in omnichannel retail hinges on accurate data and systems integration.
That’s why our CloudX WMS doesn’t just manage warehouse tasks—it integrates directly with your eCommerce platform, POS, ERP, and marketplaces, creating a synchronized ecosystem.
This means:
- Automated order routing and processing
- Real-time shipping status updates
- Intelligent replenishment and restocking
- Centralized dashboards for smarter decision-making
Whether you’re monitoring SKUs across multiple warehouses or tracking a return in real time, CloudX gives you complete control and confidence.
4. Streamlined Returns Management Across Channels
Omnichannel returns are more complex than standard eCommerce—especially when customers expect to return online purchases in-store, or vice versa.
3PLs play a crucial role in enabling reverse logistics workflows that align with your brand promise.
Our returns solutions include:
- Centralized returns processing from all channels
- Item inspection, restocking, or refurbishment
- Real-time returns status for customers
- Custom return rules based on SKU, channel, or season
The result? A faster, more transparent, and brand-aligned returns experience that keeps customers coming back.
5. Scalability Without Infrastructure Overhead
Omnichannel growth often means spikes in demand across different channels—holiday sales, product launches, influencer drops, etc.
Instead of scrambling to hire temporary staff or rent warehouse space, partnering with a 3PL gives you on-demand scalability.
At Bergen Logistics:
- We operate a global network of strategically located fulfillment centers, all powered by CloudX Systems.
- We flex our resources to match your volumes—no matter how quickly they shift.
- We support seasonal ramp-ups, international expansion, and multi-region inventory placement for reduced transit times.
Grow confidently, knowing your logistics will keep pace.
6. Customization That Enhances the Brand Experience
Today’s consumers don’t just want fast shipping—they want an experience that reflects your brand.
A top-tier 3PL does more than pick and pack. At Bergen Logistics, we offer:
- Custom packaging, kitting, and unboxing experiences
- Garment-on-hanger (GOH) handling for apparel
- Personalization options like gift notes or branded inserts
- Specialty handling for beauty, lifestyle, and high-value items
This ensures your brand shines—across every touchpoint, in every channel.
The Bergen Logistics Advantage: Built for Omnichannel Retail
With over 25 years of experience in logistics for fashion, retail, and lifestyle brands, Bergen Logistics has helped hundreds of brands scale their omnichannel strategies with precision and confidence.
Here’s why brands choose Bergen:
Deep Omnichannel Expertise
We understand the complexity of managing multiple sales channels—and we’ve built systems, processes, and teams that excel at it.
CloudX Systems
Our proprietary WMS gives you unparalleled visibility, channel integration, and data-driven insights for smarter operations.
Global Infrastructure
With fulfillment centers across the U.S., Canada, and Europe, we offer fast delivery and cost-efficient logistics for a global customer base.
Personalized Service
Every brand is different. Our dedicated account managers work with you to tailor workflows and strategies to your specific goals and growth plans.
The Risks of Staying Static
Trying to manage omnichannel logistics in-house can lead to:
- Operational bottlenecks
- Inconsistent customer experiences
- Inventory inaccuracies
- Missed growth opportunities
The longer you delay optimizing your logistics, the more you risk customer satisfaction and competitive edge.
Final Thought: A Seamless Experience Starts Behind the Scenes
Today’s most successful brands understand that the customer journey doesn’t end at checkout—it continues through fulfillment, delivery, and returns.
A trusted 3PL like Bergen Logistics provides the backbone that makes omnichannel excellence possible—freeing you to focus on growth, innovation, and brand building.
Let’s Build Your Omnichannel Future
Ready to scale smarter, simplify logistics, and deliver a seamless retail experience across every channel?
Partner with Bergen Logistics and unlock a logistics strategy built for modern omnichannel brands.
Let’s explore how CloudX Systems and Bergen’s global infrastructure can elevate your fulfillment game—starting today.